Tomato

Did you know that while tomatoes come in various shapes and sizes, the only real difference in varieties is whether they are best used for eating or best used for canning or preserving? Did you know there are hundreds of varieties of tomatoes – different sizes (grape, cherry, beefsteak), colors (black, red, yellow) and amount of juice (Roma, Plum, SanMarzanos)?

Did you know that tomatoes are the most popular fruit grown by home gardeners? While it is usually consumed as a vegetable, tomatoes are technically a fruit (and were called Love Apples based on their heart shape and the perception that they were an aphrodisiac) – the average consumer eats 18 lbs. of tomatoes each year – this does not include ketchup or other sauce-based products.

Did you know that tomatoes stop growing when the temperature reaches 95 degrees Fahrenheit? Best performance is achieved between 65 degrees and 85 degrees. If evening temperatures do not fall below 85 degrees, the fruit will not ripen properly.

Did you know that tomatoes require significant moisture? Elevated gardens – especially ones with a water reservoir, like the Eco Garden, allow tomatoes to thrive as their tap-root will grow into the reservoir keeping the plants hydrated.

Did you know that cherry tomatoes (and other similar size varieties) grow very well in a hanging basket? This can help you maximize production in a limited space garden.

Did you know that tomatoes go with almost any savory dish? Serve raw with fresh mozzarella for an amazing salad, stuff raw tomatoes with tuna or chicken for a healthy main dish alternative, cook down into sauces or serve broiled with bacon and sausages for a hearty breakfast.

Did you know that at one point in time in US history tomatoes were labelled as poisonous? Tomatoes originated in South America and made their way to the US through Central America, Mexico and into Spain – then into other European countries before finding their way back to the US? It is said that Thomas Jefferson introduced Americans to the tomato after his various trips to Europe.

Did you know that a single tomato plant can produce five to 10 lbs. of tomatoes? This of course depends on variety and growing season but tomatoes can be very prolific if managed properly.