Category: News

As British Tomato Fortnight 2025 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the vibrant celebration of one of the UK’s most cherished homegrown crops. From June 2nd to 15th, communities across the nation came together to honour the flavour, sustainability, and health benefits of British tomatoes.

A Fortnight of Flavour and Innovation

This year’s festivities highlighted the exceptional taste of British tomatoes, a result of being vine-ripened longer and selected for flavour over shelf life. Growers introduced exciting new varieties like ‘Black Moon’, ‘Bliss’, and ‘Toddler’, each offering unique flavours and aesthetics . These innovations underscore the industry’s commitment to providing diverse and delicious options for consumers.

Embracing Sustainability and Supporting Local Growers

British Tomato Fortnight also emphasised the importance of sustainable farming practices. Many UK growers utilise advanced greenhouse technologies, rainwater harvesting, and natural pest control methods to produce eco-friendly crops . By choosing locally grown tomatoes, consumers support the local economy and reduce food miles, contributing to a healthier planet.

Culinary Creativity and Community Engagement

The fortnight inspired culinary exploration, with a plethora of recipes showcasing the versatility of British tomatoes. From refreshing salads to hearty sauces, these dishes celebrated the tomato’s role in British cuisine . Community events, cooking demonstrations, and social media campaigns further engaged the public, fostering a deeper appreciation for this staple ingredient.

As British Tomato Fortnight 2025 comes to an end, the enthusiasm and support for British tomatoes remain strong. The event not only celebrated the fruit itself but also the dedication of local growers and the benefits of sustainable agriculture. Let’s carry this momentum forward by continuing to choose British-grown tomatoes and supporting our local farmers year-round.

June marks a crucial stage in the tomato-growing calendar across the UK. Whether you’re nurturing your plants in a greenhouse, on a balcony, or in a back garden, this is the month when tomatoes begin to take off — and with the right care, you’ll set the foundation for a bountiful summer harvest. Here’s how to keep your tomato plants healthy and productive throughout June:

1. Sunshine and Shelter: Position is Key

Tomatoes love the sun — aim for at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight a day. In the UK, especially in variable June weather, make sure your plants are positioned in a warm, sheltered spot, protected from strong winds. If you’re growing outside, staking or caging your plants early will help them stay upright and reduce disease risk as they grow taller.

2. Watering Wisely

Tomatoes need consistent moisture, but overwatering or underwatering can lead to problems like split fruit or blossom end rot. In June, the temperature rises and plants grow rapidly, so aim to:

• Water early in the morning or late in the evening
• Keep the soil moist but not soggy
• Water at the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves to reduce the risk of fungal diseases

Mulching with straw or compost can also help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

3. Pinch, Prune, and Feed

By now, your tomato plants will be actively producing flowers and side shoots. To focus the plant’s energy:

• Pinch outside shoots on cordon (indeterminate) varieties — these are the small shoots that appear between the main stem and leaf branches.
• Support the main stem with a cane or string to prevent bending or snapping.
• Start feeding with a high-potassium tomato fertiliser once the first truss (cluster of flowers) has set fruit. Feed every 7–10 days for the best results.

With the right care in June, your tomato plants will be well on their way to producing delicious, sun-ripened fruit by July and August. Regular attention, a little pruning, and some timely feeding now will reward you with a flavour-packed summer harvest.

British Tomato Fortnight is a vibrant celebration that takes place every year, highlighting the quality, sustainability, and deliciousness of UK-grown tomatoes. This celebration is all about encouraging people to buy local, support British growers, and explore the fantastic variety of tomatoes cultivated right on our doorstep. Here are three key reasons to get involved:

1. Support Local, Eat Fresh

British tomatoes are often picked and on supermarket shelves within 24 hours, meaning they’re incredibly fresh compared to imported ones. Supporting homegrown produce not only ensures better flavour and nutrition but also helps sustain UK farmers and reduces food miles, making it an eco-friendly choice.

2. A Taste for Every Plate

From sweet cherry tomatoes to robust beefsteaks, British growers offer a stunning variety of tomato types. Whether you’re whipping up a salad, pasta sauce, or simply enjoying them with a pinch of sea salt, there’s a perfect British tomato for every dish. This fortnight is a great time to discover new varieties and recipes.

3. Grown Sustainably

Many British tomato farms use advanced greenhouse technology, rainwater harvesting, and natural pest control to grow their crops. This means UK tomatoes are not only tasty but also grown with sustainability in mind — an increasingly important factor for environmentally conscious consumers.

During British Tomato Fortnight, look out for promotions in supermarkets, recipe ideas online, and farm events across the country. It’s a juicy opportunity to celebrate one of the UK’s tastiest homegrown treats. Let us know how you’ll be celebrating this fortnight!

March is National Nutrition Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate one of nature’s most versatile and nutritious foods—tomatoes! These vibrant red fruits (yes, they’re technically a fruit!) are packed with essential nutrients that support overall health. Whether eaten fresh, cooked, or blended into sauces, tomatoes are a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. Let’s explore why tomatoes deserve a spot on your plate!

Nutritional Benefits of Tomatoes:

• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals – Tomatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which supports the immune system and helps with skin health. They also provide Vitamin K, important for blood clotting, and potassium, which aids in heart function and muscle health.
• High in Antioxidants – Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that gives them their red colour. Lycopene has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and certain cancers, as well as protecting skin from sun damage.
• Supports Heart Health – Thanks to their fibre, potassium, and antioxidants, tomatoes can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Good for Eye Health – Tomatoes contain beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which are known to support eye health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Tomatoes are an easy and affordable way to add more nutrients to your diet. Whether you prefer cherry tomatoes as a snack, sun-dried tomatoes in pasta, or homemade salsa for dipping, there are endless ways to enjoy this superfood.

This National Nutrition Month, make a commitment to nourish your body with wholesome, nutrient-rich foods. And what better place to start than with the mighty tomato?

Tomatoes are more than just a versatile kitchen staple — they’re packed with nutrients that offer impressive health benefits. Whether you enjoy them fresh, cooked, or blended into your favourite recipes, adding tomatoes to your diet can do wonders for your well-being. Here are three key reasons why tomatoes are a must-have superfood.

1. Rich in Antioxidants for Disease Prevention

Tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants, especially lycopene, which gives them their vibrant red colour.

• Lycopene’s role: This powerful compound has been linked to reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers, particularly prostate and breast cancer.
• Other antioxidants: Tomatoes also contain vitamin C, beta-carotene, and vitamin E, which protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Cooking tomatoes, such as in sauces or soups, enhances lycopene absorption, making dishes like pasta sauce not only delicious but nutritious too!

2. Supports Heart Health

Tomatoes are a heart-friendly food that helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.

• Blood pressure: Tomatoes are a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium.
• Cholesterol levels: Lycopene and other nutrients in tomatoes can help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol while boosting HDL (“good”) cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease.

Adding tomatoes to your meals is an easy way to support heart health without compromising on flavour.

3. Great for Skin and Eye Health

The nutrients in tomatoes do wonders for your skin and vision.

• Vitamin A: Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamin A, which is essential for good vision, particularly night vision.
• Skin health: Lycopene and vitamin C in tomatoes help protect your skin from sun damage and promote collagen production, keeping your skin youthful and firm.
• Hydration: With tomatoes being 95% water, they contribute to skin hydration, giving you that healthy glow.

A daily serving of tomatoes, whether in salads, juices, or sauces, can help you look and feel your best.

As we embrace Organic September, a month dedicated to raising awareness about the benefits of organic farming and the importance of sustainable practices, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on one of the most versatile and beloved fruits in our kitchens: the tomato. From its vibrant flavour to its nutritional powerhouse, the organic tomato is a shining example of how choosing organic can make a difference—for our health, our environment, and our taste buds.

Let’s explore why organic tomatoes deserve a place at the heart of your meals this month and beyond.

1. Healthier for You and Your Family

Organic tomatoes are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, making them a healthier choice for you and your family. These harmful chemicals can leave residues on conventional produce, which, over time, may contribute to various health concerns. Organic farming practices emphasize natural methods of pest control and soil fertility, reducing your exposure to potentially harmful substances.

Studies suggest that organic tomatoes may be more nutrient-dense than their conventionally grown counterparts. For example, organic tomatoes often contain higher levels of beneficial compounds like vitamin C, antioxidants, and polyphenols, which can contribute to a stronger immune system and overall well-being. By choosing organic, you’re not only avoiding harmful chemicals but also boosting your intake of essential nutrients.

2. Better for the Environment

Organic farming isn’t just good for our bodies—it’s also crucial for the health of our planet. Conventional tomato farming often relies on chemical inputs that can degrade soil health, pollute waterways, and harm local ecosystems. In contrast, organic farming practices are designed to work in harmony with nature, promoting biodiversity, conserving water, and improving soil fertility.

For instance, organic farmers use compost, crop rotation, and natural pest predators to maintain healthy soil and plants. This approach not only reduces the environmental impact of tomato farming but also helps to sequester carbon in the soil, contributing to the fight against climate change. By supporting organic tomato growers, you’re playing a role in preserving the environment for future generations.

3. Unmatched Flavour and Quality

Anyone who has bitten into a sun-ripened organic tomato knows that the taste is simply unparalleled. Organic tomatoes are often grown in smaller, diversified farms where the focus is on quality rather than quantity. These tomatoes are allowed to ripen naturally on the vine, absorbing all the nutrients and flavours that the soil has to offer.

The result? A tomato that’s bursting with flavour, sweetness, and a perfect balance of acidity. Whether you’re making a fresh tomato salad, a rich pasta sauce, or a simple slice of tomato on your sandwich, the difference in taste is noticeable. Organic tomatoes capture the essence of what tomatoes should be—a true celebration of nature’s bounty.

As we celebrate Organic September, let’s take a moment to appreciate the humble tomato and the incredible benefits that come with choosing organic. By opting for organic tomatoes, you’re not only making a healthier choice for yourself and your family but also supporting farming practices that protect our environment and deliver exceptional flavour. So, the next time you reach for a tomato, make it organic—and taste the difference that nature intended.

Tomatoes, one of the most beloved ingredients in global cuisine, have a rich and intriguing history that spans continents and centuries. From their beginnings in ancient South America to their current status as a kitchen staple worldwide, the journey of the tomato is a fascinating tale of exploration, culinary evolution, and cultural exchange. Let’s dive into the origins of this versatile fruit and discover how it became a favourite in kitchens around the world.

Ancient Beginnings in South America

The story of the tomato begins in the rugged landscapes of the Andes mountains in South America, where wild tomatoes grew thousands of years ago. These small, berry-like fruits were first domesticated by the ancient peoples of present-day Peru and Ecuador. The Incas and Aztecs played a significant role in cultivating tomatoes, recognising their potential as a valuable food source.

In the Aztec empire, which thrived in what is now Mexico, tomatoes were integral to their diet and culture. The Aztecs called the fruit “xitomatl,” which translates to “plump thing with a naval.” They combined tomatoes with other indigenous ingredients such as chili peppers and squash, creating dishes that laid the foundation for many modern Mexican recipes.

Introduction to Europe

The arrival of tomatoes in Europe is credited to the Spanish explorers who ventured to the Americas in the 16th century. Hernán Cortés, after conquering the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán (modern-day Mexico City) in 1521, brought tomato seeds back to Spain. Initially, Europeans were sceptical of the new fruit, often growing tomatoes as ornamental plants rather than for culinary use. The bright, colourful fruits were admired for their beauty but feared for their supposed toxicity.

However, it wasn’t long before tomatoes found their way into European kitchens, particularly in Spain and Italy. The Italians, in particular, embraced tomatoes with open arms, incorporating them into their rich culinary tradition. By the late 17th century, tomatoes were a common ingredient in Italian dishes, including the earliest versions of pasta sauces and pizzas.

The Spread to the Rest of the World

Tomatoes gradually made their way to other parts of Europe, and eventually to Asia and North America. Each region adapted the fruit to their culinary traditions, leading to a diverse array of tomato-based dishes worldwide. In the United States, Thomas Jefferson, a noted horticulturist, was among the first to grow tomatoes in the late 18th century, helping to popularise them.

In the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution and advancements in agriculture led to the widespread cultivation and commercialisation of tomatoes. Canned tomatoes and tomato-based products like ketchup became household staples, further cementing the tomato’s place in global cuisine.

Modern Day Tomatoes

Today, tomatoes are one of the most widely grown and consumed fruits in the world. They are cultivated in various climates, from greenhouses in colder regions to vast fields in warmer areas. The development of numerous varieties has allowed for a wide range of flavours, colours, and uses, from sweet cherry tomatoes to robust beefsteaks.

The nutritional value of tomatoes, rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and the powerful antioxidant lycopene, has also contributed to their popularity. Tomatoes are celebrated not only for their culinary versatility but also for their health benefits.

The journey of the tomato from ancient South America to global kitchens is a testament to the fruit’s adaptability and appeal. Its integration into diverse culinary traditions worldwide has made it a staple ingredient that continues to inspire chefs and home cooks alike. Whether enjoyed fresh in a salad, simmered into a rich sauce, or baked atop a pizza, the tomato remains a beloved component of our meals, with a history as rich and colourful as its flavour.

National Allotment Week is the perfect time to celebrate the joys of growing your own produce and share tips for successful gardening. Tomatoes, one of the most popular crops among allotment holders, require some special care to thrive and produce bountiful harvests. Here are three essential tips for looking after your tomatoes during National Allotment Week.

1. Ensure Consistent Watering

Tomatoes need consistent watering to prevent issues like blossom end rot, fruit cracking, and overall poor fruit development. Proper watering practices are crucial to maintaining healthy plants and achieving a bountiful harvest.

Water Deeply: Water your tomato plants deeply and infrequently rather than giving them a light sprinkle every day. This encourages the roots to grow deeper and makes the plants more drought-resistant.

Morning Routine: Watering early in the morning is ideal as it allows the plants to absorb moisture throughout the day and reduces the risk of fungal diseases that can develop in damp conditions.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or compost, around the base of your plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.

2. Provide Proper Support

Tomato plants can become heavy with fruit and need proper support to prevent them from sprawling on the ground, which can lead to disease and fruit damage.

Staking and Caging: Use stakes, cages, or trellises to support your tomato plants. Staking involves tying the main stem to a sturdy stake, while caging surrounds the plant with a wire frame to support multiple stems.

Pruning: Regularly prune your tomato plants to remove suckers (the small shoots that grow between the main stem and branches). Pruning helps improve air circulation, reduces disease risk, and allows the plant to direct more energy towards fruit production.

Tie Gently: Use soft ties or cloth strips to gently secure your tomato plants to their supports. Avoid tying too tightly, as this can damage the stems.

3. Monitor for Pests and Diseases

Tomatoes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases that can affect their growth and yield. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are key to keeping your plants healthy.

Regular Inspections: Check your plants regularly for signs of pests like aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. Early detection allows you to take action before infestations become severe.

Natural Remedies: Use natural pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings or applying organic treatments like neem oil and insecticidal soap.

Disease Prevention: Practice crop rotation, avoid overhead watering, and space your plants adequately to improve air circulation. Remove and dispose of any diseased leaves or plants to prevent the spread of fungal diseases like blight and powdery mildew.

National Allotment Week is an excellent opportunity to focus on the care and maintenance of your tomato plants. By ensuring consistent watering, providing proper support, and monitoring for pests and diseases, you can enjoy a healthy and productive tomato crop. Happy gardening!

As the summer solstice arrives, heralding the longest day of the year and the peak of the growing season, tomato enthusiasts are gearing up to ensure their plants flourish under the summer sun. To help you achieve bountiful harvests and vibrant tomato crops, here are three essential tips for growing tomatoes in the summer:

1. Provide Ample Watering and Moisture Management:

Summer heat can quickly lead to moisture stress in tomato plants, affecting their growth and fruit development. It’s crucial to establish a consistent watering routine to keep the soil evenly moist without becoming waterlogged. Water your tomato plants deeply and thoroughly, aiming to moisten the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. Consider watering early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize water loss through evaporation and reduce the risk of leaf scorch. Additionally, mulching around the base of tomato plants with organic materials such as straw, grass clippings, or compost can help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weed growth, creating optimal conditions for healthy tomato growth throughout the summer months.

2. Provide Adequate Support and Pruning:

As tomato plants continue to grow vigorously during the summer, it’s essential to provide adequate support to prevent sprawling and ensure proper airflow around the foliage. Install sturdy stakes, cages, or trellises to support the tomato plants and keep them upright as they become laden with fruit. Regularly inspect your tomato plants for suckers – the small shoots that emerge from the leaf axils – and promptly remove them to redirect energy towards fruit production and promote better air circulation. Pruning excess foliage also helps prevent the spread of diseases such as blight and allows sunlight to reach the ripening fruit, enhancing flavour and colour development. By providing proper support and practicing strategic pruning, you’ll encourage stronger, healthier tomato plants that can withstand the summer heat and produce abundant yields.

3. Monitor and Manage Pests and Diseases:

Summer warmth and humidity create ideal conditions for the proliferation of pests and diseases that can wreak havoc on tomato plants if left unchecked. Keep a vigilant eye on your tomato plants for signs of common pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and hornworms, as well as symptoms of fungal diseases like early blight, powdery mildew, and blossom end rot. Implement proactive pest management strategies such as handpicking insects, using insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays, and practicing crop rotation to minimise pest pressure and reduce the risk of infestations. For fungal diseases, apply preventative fungicides or organic remedies such as copper sprays or compost tea to protect tomato plants and maintain their health throughout the summer growing season. By staying proactive and attentive to the needs of your tomato plants, you’ll be better equipped to manage pest and disease challenges and ensure a successful harvest of ripe, flavourful tomatoes all summer long.

Growing tomatoes in the summer presents unique challenges and opportunities for gardeners to cultivate thriving plants and enjoy abundant harvests of delicious, sun-ripened fruit. By implementing these three essential tips – providing ample watering and moisture management, providing adequate support and pruning, and monitoring and managing pests and diseases – you’ll set your tomato plants up for success and enjoy a of summer tomatoes. Happy gardening and may your summer harvest be plentiful and delicious!

Today marks the start of Great Big Green Week, and as we celebrate environmental initiatives across the globe, it’s essential to recognise its significance in the realm of tomato cultivation.

From reducing carbon footprints to promoting eco-friendly practices, this event holds particular importance for those involved in growing tomatoes. Let’s delve into three key points highlighting the importance of Great Big Green Week in the context of tomato growing:

1. Championing Sustainable Agriculture:

Great Big Green Week serves as a reminder for sustainable agriculture practices, and tomato growers are no exception. Sustainable farming methods, such as organic cultivation, integrated pest management, and water conservation techniques, play a crucial role in minimising environmental impact while maintaining crop productivity. By embracing sustainable practices, tomato growers can reduce reliance on synthetic inputs, preserve soil health, and protect biodiversity, ultimately contributing to a healthier planet for future generations.

2. Fostering Environmental Awareness:

Participation in Great Big Green Week offers tomato growers an opportunity to raise awareness about environmental issues and the importance of sustainable food production. By engaging with their local communities through events, workshops, and educational initiatives, growers can share knowledge about the environmental benefits of locally grown tomatoes and inspire others to make eco-conscious choices. This heightened awareness fosters a deeper appreciation for the connection between food, the environment, and personal well-being, driving positive change within the industry and beyond.

3. Promoting Climate Resilience:

Climate change poses significant challenges to agriculture, including tomato production, as shifting weather patterns, extreme temperatures, and unpredictable rainfall can impact crop yields and quality. Great Big Green Week encourages tomato growers to adopt climate-resilient practices that enhance the resilience of their operations to climate-related risks. This may include investing in greenhouse technology, implementing water-efficient irrigation systems, and diversifying crop varieties to better withstand changing environmental conditions. By prioritizing climate resilience, tomato growers can adapt to the challenges of a warming world and ensure the continued availability of this essential crop.

Great Big Green Week holds immense importance in the context of tomato growing, serving as a catalyst for sustainable agriculture, environmental awareness, and climate resilience. By embracing this event and its principles, tomato growers can play a vital role in fostering a more sustainable and resilient food system while safeguarding the planet for future generations. Let’s celebrate Great Big Green Week and its role in cultivating a greener, healthier world for all.