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Tomatoes might not be the first ingredient you associate with Christmas, but their vibrant colour, versatility, and fresh flavour make them a surprising star of the season. Here are three ways tomatoes take centre stage during the festive period:

1. Adding a Festive Touch to Starters

Tomatoes bring a splash of Christmas cheer to appetisers. Their rich red colour perfectly matches the Christmas palette, making them ideal for dishes like bruschetta, caprese skewers, or even tomato and basil tarts. Pair them with fresh herbs like basil or thyme and a drizzle of olive oil for a starter that’s simple yet sophisticated.

Try This: Serve roasted cherry tomatoes with burrata as a warm and indulgent starter. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as delicious as it is appetising.

2. A Fresh Contrast in Hearty Christmas Salads

While the festive season is full of indulgent meals, tomatoes offer a refreshing contrast in festive salads. From pomegranate and tomato medleys to classic caprese salads with a balsamic glaze, they bring brightness to heavier holiday menus.

Tip: Use a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes to add extra colour to your table. Toss them with fresh greens, nuts, and a citrus vinaigrette for a salad that feels as special as the season.

3. A Festive Ingredient for Comforting Soups

Tomato-based soups and bisques are warm and comforting, making them a perfect fit for chilly Christmas evenings. Classic tomato soup can be elevated with Christmas-inspired toppings like crispy sage, croutons shaped like stars, or a swirl of cream.

Festive Hack: Pair your tomato soup with grilled cheese bites cut into festive shapes for a cozy and fun Christmas Eve treat.

How do you use tomatoes during Christmas? Share your ideas with us! 🎄🍅

Tomatoes are a staple in kitchens worldwide, but there’s more to these juicy fruits than meets the eye. Here are five fun facts about tomatoes that will surprise and delight you!

1. Tomatoes Are Technically a Fruit

Botanically, tomatoes are classified as fruits because they grow from the flower of the plant and contain seeds. However, in 1893, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled them a vegetable for taxation purposes!

2. There Are Over 10,000 Varieties

From tiny cherry tomatoes to massive beefsteaks, the world is full of tomato varieties in every shape, size, and colour. You can even find purple, yellow, and striped tomatoes!

3. Tomatoes Were Once Feared

In the 1700s, Europeans called tomatoes “Poison Apples,” believing they were toxic. This misconception came from wealthy diners eating tomatoes on pewter plates, which reacted with the fruit’s acidity and caused lead poisoning.

4. Tomatoes Have Been to Space

Tomato seeds have been grown aboard the International Space Station as part of experiments to study how plants grow in microgravity. Space tomatoes, anyone?

5. They’re Full of Health Benefits

Packed with antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes help fight free radicals, promote heart health, and boost your immune system. They’re a delicious way to stay healthy!

Tomatoes are more fascinating than they seem, from their fruit vs. vegetable debate to their space travels. Which fact surprised you the most? Let us know!

As the temperatures drop, tomatoes need a little extra TLC to thrive. Whether you’re growing them indoors or keeping an eye on outdoor plants in milder climates, here are three key tips to keep your tomatoes healthy and productive in December.

1. Protect Tomatoes from the Cold

Tomatoes are sensitive to frost and cold weather, making temperature management crucial during December. If you’re in a colder climate:

• Outdoor Plants: Cover them with frost blankets or cloches on chilly nights. Mulch around the base to insulate roots.
• Indoors: Keep potted plants near a sunny windowsill, but away from cold drafts.

Tip: If you still have green tomatoes on the vine outdoors, pick them before a hard frost hits and let them ripen indoors.

2. Adjust Watering and Feeding

During the cooler months, tomato plants need less water than in summer, as evaporation rates are lower. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

• Watering: Check the soil regularly. Water only when the top inch feels dry.
• Feeding: Use a balanced fertilizer sparingly, as tomatoes grow more slowly in winter. For fruiting plants, a potassium-rich feed encourages ripening.

Pro Tip: Water in the morning so excess moisture dries off by evening, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

3. Maximise Light and Warmth

Shorter days mean less sunlight, which tomatoes need to produce fruit.

• Indoors: Supplement natural light with grow lights, positioning them 6–12 inches above the plants.
• Outdoors in Mild Climates: Prune unnecessary foliage to ensure sunlight reaches ripening fruit.
• Greenhouses: Maintain a consistent temperature of 15–21°C using heaters or insulation if necessary.

Hack: Place potted tomatoes near reflective surfaces or use aluminium foil to bounce light onto the plants.

Tomatoes in December require a bit more care, but with these tips, you can keep your plants healthy and productive through winter. Whether you’re nurturing ripening fruit or preparing for next season, a little effort goes a long way – Happy Gardening!

As we are approaching December, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about ways to preserve your harvest. With some simple preservation techniques, you can enjoy the taste of fresh, flavourful tomatoes even in the depths of winter. Whether you’re looking to add bursts of summer flavour to soups, sauces, or stews, preserving tomatoes is a wonderful way to savour the harvest year-round. Here’s a guide to storing tomatoes for winter, so you can enjoy their bright taste long after the growing season ends.

1. Canning Tomatoes

Canning is a traditional and popular method for preserving tomatoes that can last you through the winter months. It allows you to store tomatoes in jars for up to a year, maintaining their texture and flavour beautifully. Here’s how to can tomatoes:

Step 1: Start with ripe, firm tomatoes. Blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath to loosen the skins, which you can then easily peel off.

Step 2: Once peeled, chop the tomatoes if you’d like them diced, or leave them whole. Add them to sterilised canning jars, leaving about a half-inch of space at the top. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to each jar to ensure proper acidity levels for safe storage.

Step 3: Seal the jars and place them in a water bath for 40-50 minutes. Once processed, let the jars cool. Store them in a cool, dark place, and they’ll be ready to enjoy whenever you need them.

Canned tomatoes are ideal for making sauces, stews, and soups throughout the winter. By preserving the tomatoes when they’re at their peak, you’ll get a burst of summer flavour in every meal!

2. Freezing Tomatoes

Freezing is one of the simplest ways to preserve tomatoes, requiring minimal equipment and preparation. Although frozen tomatoes don’t retain their fresh texture, they work well in cooked dishes, where their flavour shines. Here’s a quick method for freezing tomatoes:

Step 1: Wash and dry the tomatoes. You can freeze them whole, chopped, or pureed, depending on how you plan to use them. If you prefer, blanching and peeling the tomatoes first will make them easier to cook with later.

Step 2: Place the tomatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to freezer bags or airtight containers, squeezing out as much air as possible.

Step 3: Label each bag with the date, so you know how long they’ve been stored. Frozen tomatoes will keep well for up to six months.

Frozen tomatoes are excellent for pasta sauces, chili, and casseroles. Since they break down easily when thawed, you don’t need to worry about texture – just focus on that amazing tomato flavour!

3. Making Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes (or oven-dried tomatoes) are an incredible way to add intense tomato flavour to dishes. Dried tomatoes are versatile, chewy, and packed with a concentrated sweetness that can enhance everything from salads to pasta. Here’s how to make sun-dried tomatoes at home:

Step 1: Slice small or medium tomatoes (like Roma tomatoes) in half, and remove seeds if desired. Place them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Lightly season with salt and any herbs you enjoy, such as rosemary or thyme. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil.

Step 3: Dry the tomatoes in the oven at a low temperature for 6-8 hours, or until they’re dehydrated but still pliable. Alternatively, you can use a dehydrator for this process if you have one.

Once dried, you can store the tomatoes in airtight containers or jars. For added flavour and convenience, store them in olive oil, which also adds a delicious tomato-infused oil you can use for cooking. These sun-dried tomatoes are perfect for snacking, tossing into pastas, or topping pizzas.

Whether canned, frozen, or dried, each preservation method brings out a different quality of tomatoes, allowing you to savour their taste in various recipes. So don’t let those last tomatoes of the season go to waste – preserve them, and enjoy the taste of summer all winter long!

The tomato, now a staple in cuisines around the world, has a rich and intriguing history. From its ancient origins to its transformation into a culinary star, the tomato has journeyed across continents, cultures, and centuries. Here are five key points about the history of tomatoes that showcase its incredible story!

1. Origins in the Andes Mountains of South America

Tomatoes are native to the Andes Mountains in South America, specifically in areas now part of Peru, Ecuador, and northern Chile. Wild tomato plants grew in abundance here and were first cultivated by the Aztecs and Incas as early as 500 BC. These early tomatoes were small and yellow, much like cherry tomatoes, and were a far cry from the large, red varieties we know today. The indigenous peoples of Central and South America valued tomatoes as a staple food, using them in various dishes and sauces.

2. The Journey to Europe with Spanish Explorers

It wasn’t until the Spanish conquest of the Americas in the early 16th century that tomatoes were introduced to Europe. Spanish explorers, who had encountered the tomato in what is now Mexico, brought it back to Europe around 1521. Known as “tomatl” in the Aztec language, the fruit was soon cultivated in Spain and other parts of Europe. However, it wasn’t immediately embraced as food; many Europeans initially regarded the tomato as an ornamental plant due to its bright, striking appearance.

3. The “Poisonous” Reputation of Tomatoes in Europe

Upon its introduction to Europe, the tomato quickly earned a controversial reputation. Because it belongs to the nightshade family (Solanaceae), which includes some toxic plants, many Europeans believed tomatoes to be poisonous. This belief was further fuelled by the fact that tomatoes were often served on pewter plates, which could leach lead when combined with the tomato’s acidity, leading to lead poisoning. For centuries, tomatoes were viewed with suspicion in Europe, especially among the upper classes, and were more commonly grown as decorative plants than as food.

4. Embrace by Italy and the Birth of Tomato-Based Cuisine

In the 18th century, tomatoes began to gain popularity in Italy, where they were gradually incorporated into cooking. Italians were among the first Europeans to appreciate the culinary potential of tomatoes, experimenting with the fruit in sauces, soups, and eventually in pasta dishes. By the late 1700s, the tomato had become a central ingredient in Italian cuisine, forever changing the food culture of the country. Italian immigrants later brought tomato-based recipes to the United States, including iconic dishes like pizza and pasta with marinara sauce, helping to popularize tomatoes worldwide.

5. Global Cultivation and the Tomato’s Rise as a Culinary Icon

Today, the tomato is one of the most widely cultivated crops in the world, with more than 180 million tons produced annually. From North and South America to Europe, Asia, and beyond, tomatoes are a beloved staple in countless cuisines. They’re celebrated not only for their versatility in dishes but also for their health benefits, including their rich content of antioxidants like lycopene. The tomato’s journey from a small wild fruit in the Andes to a global culinary icon showcases its adaptability and enduring appeal.

The tomato’s story reminds us of the power of food to connect cultures and transform traditions, and it continues to inspire chefs and food lovers around the globe.

Just because the temperatures have dropped doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to fresh, home-grown tomatoes! Growing tomatoes indoors during the winter is not only possible but also rewarding. With a few easy-to-follow steps, you can bring the vibrant taste of summer into your kitchen all year round. Here’s a guide to help you successfully cultivate fresh tomatoes indoors throughout the colder months.

1. Choose the Right Tomato Varieties

Not all tomato varieties are ideal for indoor growing, especially during the winter. Compact or dwarf varieties are typically the best choice because they require less space and grow well in containers. Here are some popular tomato varieties that thrive indoors:

• Tiny Tim: This is a small cherry tomato variety that grows well in containers and produces delicious, bite-sized tomatoes.
• Yellow Canary: Known for its small size, this variety has a mild flavour and grows well in pots, making it perfect for indoor cultivation.
• Red Robin: Another compact cherry tomato variety that is well-suited to indoor conditions, Red Robin tomatoes are small but full of flavour.

These smaller varieties don’t require as much sunlight or space as larger plants, which makes them easier to manage indoors.

2. Set Up the Ideal Indoor Growing Environment

To grow tomatoes indoors during winter, you’ll need to replicate the conditions they would typically have outdoors. Here’s what to focus on:

• Light: Tomatoes need a lot of light to thrive—about 10-12 hours a day. Since natural sunlight is limited in winter, consider using grow lights. LED grow lights or fluorescent lights can provide the necessary light spectrum for healthy growth. Place your lights about 6-12 inches above the plants, adjusting as they grow taller.
• Temperature: Tomatoes love warmth, so keep them away from cold drafts, as sudden temperature drops can stress the plants. A sunny windowsill or a warm room with controlled temperature works well.
• Humidity: Indoor heating can dry out the air, which isn’t ideal for tomatoes. They prefer a humidity level of around 60-70%. You can increase humidity by placing a shallow tray of water near the plants or misting them occasionally. Just be cautious not to overwater, as tomatoes can be sensitive to soggy soil.

3. Care and Maintenance Tips for Indoor Tomato Plants

Once your tomatoes are growing, regular maintenance will ensure a healthy harvest. Here are some tips to help your plants thrive:

• Watering: Water your tomato plants consistently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Indoor tomatoes tend to need less water than outdoor plants since evaporation rates are lower indoors.
• Fertilising: Use a balanced fertiliser (such as 10-10-10) every 2-3 weeks. Since they’re growing indoors, tomatoes won’t have access to as many natural nutrients from the soil, so a regular feeding schedule is essential. Once the plants begin flowering, switch to a high-potassium fertilizer to support fruit production.
• Pollination: Unlike outdoor plants that rely on bees and wind for pollination, indoor tomatoes need a little help. Gently shake the stems when flowers appear to mimic natural pollination. Alternatively, you can use a small paintbrush or cotton bud to transfer pollen from one flower to another.

So, don’t let the cold season stop you from enjoying fresh, delicious tomatoes. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a bountiful indoor harvest. Happy growing!

Tomatoes are a beloved staple in British cuisine, and with a plethora of varieties available, it’s no wonder that gardeners across the UK are eager to grow them. Each tomato variety brings its own unique flavour, texture, and uses, making them perfect for everything from fresh salads to hearty sauces. Here are three distinct UK tomato varieties that are worth exploring.

1. Gardener’s Delight

Gardener’s Delight is a classic cherry tomato variety that has become a favourite among home gardeners and chefs alike.

• Description: These small, sweet tomatoes are typically about 2.5 cm in diameter, with a bright red colour when fully ripe. They are known for their juicy, tangy flavour, making them perfect for snacking and salads.
• Growing Conditions: Gardener’s Delight is an indeterminate variety, which means it continues to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season. They thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil. This variety is also quite resistant to diseases, making it a reliable choice for gardeners.
• Uses: These tomatoes are perfect for fresh eating, adding a burst of sweetness to salads, or roasting for a concentrated flavour. They can also be used in sauces or as a colourful garnish.

2. Ailsa Craig

Ailsa Craig is a traditional British variety that has been loved for generations, celebrated for its robust flavour and versatility.

• Description: Ailsa Craig tomatoes are medium-sized, typically weighing around 100-150 grams. They have a smooth, glossy skin and are known for their rich, sweet flavour and meaty texture. The vibrant red colour adds visual appeal to any dish.
• Growing Conditions: This determinate variety is well-suited to the UK climate, as it ripens relatively early in the season. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Ailsa Craig is also more resistant to splitting, making it ideal for gardeners who want to avoid waste.
• Uses: These tomatoes are perfect for salads, sandwiches, and sauces. Their firm texture makes them suitable for slicing, while their flavour enhances a variety of dishes, from classic pasta sauces to hearty casseroles.

3. Tumbling Tom

Tumbling Tom is a delightful trailing variety that is perfect for hanging baskets and containers, making it an excellent choice for gardeners with limited space.

• Description: These small, round tomatoes grow in clusters and have a sweet, juicy flavour. They come in various colours, including red and yellow, and can weigh around 30 grams each. Tumbling Tom plants have a cascading growth habit, making them visually appealing in any garden.
• Growing Conditions: This variety thrives in pots, hanging baskets, and window boxes, making it ideal for urban gardening. They prefer a sunny spot and require regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist.
• Uses: Tumbling Tom tomatoes are perfect for snacking right off the vine. They can also be used in salads, pasta dishes, or as a colourful addition to any plate. Their sweetness pairs beautifully with fresh herbs, cheese, and other seasonal ingredients.

The UK boasts a diverse range of tomato varieties, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Experimenting with different varieties not only adds flavour to your meals but also enhances your gardening experience. Happy gardening!

Tomatoes are often associated with the warm summer months, but with the right techniques and a little creativity, you can successfully grow these delicious fruits in the winter season too. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these three tips will help you cultivate healthy tomato plants even when the temperatures drop.

1. Choose the Right Variety

Not all tomato varieties are suited for winter growth, so it’s crucial to select the right ones. Look for cold-tolerant varieties or smaller, determinate types that mature quickly. Varieties such as ‘Tiny Tim’, ‘Tumbling Tom’, or ‘Patio Princess’ are excellent choices for indoor or greenhouse growing during winter. These plants are often more compact and can thrive in smaller spaces. Additionally, consider using heirloom varieties that are known for their resilience. Researching and selecting varieties that suit your local climate will significantly improve your chances of success.

2. Create a Controlled Environment

Winter temperatures can be harsh, and tomatoes thrive in warmer conditions. To create a suitable environment for your plants, consider the following:

• Indoors: If growing indoors, place your pots near a south-facing window where they can receive ample sunlight. Supplement with grow lights if natural light is insufficient. Aim for around 12-16 hours of light each day.
• Greenhouses: If you have access to a greenhouse, this can be an ideal space for winter tomato growth. Use heaters to maintain a warm temperature and ensure good ventilation to prevent mould and mildew.
• Row Covers: For outdoor planting, use row covers to protect your plants from frost and retain warmth. These covers help create a microclimate, allowing your tomato plants to flourish despite colder outdoor temperatures.

3. Adjust Watering and Nutrient Needs

During the winter months, tomato plants may not require as much water and nutrients as they do in the summer. However, it’s essential to monitor the soil moisture closely. Here are a few tips:

• Watering: Water less frequently but ensure that the soil doesn’t completely dry out. The key is to maintain consistent moisture without overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
• Fertilisation: Use a balanced fertilizer but reduce the frequency during the winter months. A slow-release fertiliser can provide your plants with the nutrients they need without the risk of over-fertilisation.
• Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around the base of your tomato plants can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, creating a more stable environment for root growth.

Growing tomatoes in the winter can be a rewarding challenge. With a little patience and care, your winter tomato garden can yield delicious fruits that will brighten your winter meals. Happy gardening!

Tomatoes are not just delicious; they come in a stunning array of colours, each bringing its own unique flavour profile, nutritional benefits, and culinary uses. While most people may think of the classic red tomato, the world of tomatoes is much more diverse. In this blog, we’ll explore the different colours of tomatoes, their characteristics, and how they can elevate your meals.

1. Red Tomatoes

Description: The most common variety, red tomatoes are rich in flavour and are what most people picture when they think of tomatoes. They contain high levels of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to numerous health benefits.

• Nutritional Benefits: Red tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate. Lycopene is particularly beneficial for heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.
• Culinary Uses: Red tomatoes are incredibly versatile. They can be eaten raw in salads, used in sauces, or cooked in a variety of dishes. Varieties like Roma and Ailsa Craig are perfect for sauces, while cherry and beefsteak varieties shine in salads and sandwiches.

2. Yellow Tomatoes

Description: Yellow tomatoes are often sweeter and milder than their red counterparts. They range in hue from pale yellow to golden and are usually less acidic.

• Nutritional Benefits: Yellow tomatoes contain carotenoids, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health. They also provide vitamins C and A, contributing to overall wellness.
• Culinary Uses: Their sweetness makes yellow tomatoes an excellent choice for salads, salsas, and fresh eating. They can also be roasted or grilled, bringing out their natural sugars and enhancing their flavour.

3. Green Tomatoes

Description: Green tomatoes are harvested before they ripen and have a firm texture. They can range from light green to deep green and can be tart or slightly sweet.

• Nutritional Benefits: Green tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fibre. They are also a source of chlorophyll and other phytonutrients, which may have antioxidant properties.
• Culinary Uses: Green tomatoes are often used in dishes like fried green tomatoes or pickled for a tangy snack. They can also be incorporated into salsas and sauces, providing a unique tartness.

4. Purple and Black Tomatoes

Description: Purple and black tomatoes have a unique, rich colour that comes from high levels of anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant. Varieties like Black Krim and Indigo Rose are popular examples.

• Nutritional Benefits: These tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which have been linked to anti-inflammatory properties and improved heart health. They also provide vitamins C and A.
• Culinary Uses: The rich flavour of purple and black tomatoes makes them great for sauces, salsas, and gourmet dishes. Their unique appearance can also add a touch of elegance to salads and appetizers.

5. White and Cream Tomatoes

Description: White and cream tomatoes have a pale, almost translucent appearance and a mild flavour. Varieties like White Tomesol are examples of this unique colour.

• Nutritional Benefits: While they may not have the same antioxidant levels as other colours, white tomatoes are still a good source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and fibre.
• Culinary Uses: Their mild flavour makes them perfect for adding a subtle sweetness to salads, sauces, and soups. They can also be used as a unique garnish for various dishes.

Whether you prefer the classic red tomato, the sweet yellow ones, or the unique purple varieties, there’s a world of flavour waiting to be explored in the garden! So next time you’re at the market or tending to your garden, consider experimenting with the colourful world of tomatoes to elevate your culinary creations. Happy cooking!

Harvesting tomatoes is one of the most rewarding moments for any gardener. After months of nurturing your plants, watching them grow, and protecting them from pests and diseases, the time finally arrives to pick the fruits of your labour.

But when is the right time to harvest? And how can you ensure you’re getting the best-tasting tomatoes? Let’s dive into the art of harvesting tomatoes and make sure your efforts result in a delicious, bountiful harvest.

1. Knowing When Your Tomatoes Are Ready

Timing is everything when it comes to harvesting tomatoes. The key is to pick them when they’re fully ripe, which varies depending on the variety of tomato you’re growing. Here are some general guidelines:

• Colour: Ripe tomatoes will have a rich, deep colour. For red tomatoes, this means a vibrant red without any green spots. Yellow, orange, and purple varieties should have consistent colouring that reflects their specific variety. If your tomato still has hints of green, it’s best to leave it on the vine a bit longer.
• Feel: Gently squeeze the tomato—ripe tomatoes should be firm but give slightly under pressure. If they’re rock hard, they need more time. If they’re too soft or mushy, they might be overripe.
• Smell: A ripe tomato will have a sweet, earthy aroma near the stem. If it smells bland or has no scent at all, it might not be ready yet.

2. How to Harvest Your Tomatoes

Once you’ve identified the ripe tomatoes, it’s time to harvest them carefully to avoid damaging the plant or the fruit. Here’s how:

• Use Your Hands: The easiest way to harvest tomatoes is by using your hands. Gently twist the tomato until it detaches from the vine. If it doesn’t come off easily, it might need a bit more time.
• Use Pruning Shears: For larger or more delicate tomatoes, you might want to use pruning shears. Snip the stem just above the tomato to avoid bruising the fruit. This method is also good for avoiding damage to the plant, which is especially important if it’s still producing fruit.
• Harvesting in Stages: Not all tomatoes on a plant will ripen at the same time. It’s best to check your plants daily and harvest the ripe fruits as they’re ready. This will also encourage the plant to produce more fruit.

3. Storing and Using Your Harvest

Once you’ve harvested your tomatoes, proper storage is key to preserving their flavour and texture:

• Room Temperature: Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature if you plan to use them within a few days. This will keep them fresh and juicy. Avoid refrigerating tomatoes unless they’re overripe or you can’t use them right away, as cold temperatures can make them mealy and dull their flavour.
• Ripening Green Tomatoes: If you have green tomatoes at the end of the season, you can still ripen them indoors. Place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple to speed up the ripening process, as these fruits release ethylene gas, which encourages ripening.
• Preserving Your Harvest: If you find yourself with more tomatoes than you can use, consider preserving them. You can make tomato sauce, salsa, or can the tomatoes to enjoy them long after the growing season has ended.

Harvesting tomatoes is both a science and an art. By paying attention to colour, feel, and aroma, you can ensure that you’re picking tomatoes at their peak flavour. And with the right harvesting techniques, you’ll keep your plants healthy and productive throughout the season.

Whether you’re eating them fresh, preserving them for later, or sharing them with friends and family, there’s nothing quite like the taste of a home-grown tomato. So get out in the garden, enjoy the harvest, and savour the fruits of your labour!