Category: News

While January may be quiet in the fields, it’s a busy time inside the greenhouse. Careful monitoring ensures tomatoes continue to grow strong and healthy throughout winter.

Growers focus on temperature control, light levels and plant maintenance during colder months. Pruning, feeding and pest management all play a crucial role in maintaining consistent quality.

Every tomato grown in January reflects planning, expertise and attention to detail.

As the year draws to a close, December is a perfect time to reflect on the successes, challenges, and achievements of the past 12 months. At R&L Holt, we’re grateful for the support of our customers, partners, and communities.

This year brought innovation in our growing systems, strengthened partnerships with retailers, and continued commitment to sustainable farming. We’ve worked hard to deliver high-quality tomatoes to households across the UK — even through challenging weather and rising demand.

We also want to thank the dedicated team who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make year-round growing possible.

Wishing everyone a joyful, restful festive season. Here’s to a fresh, vibrant, and tomato-filled 2026!

Ever wondered how fresh, flavourful tomatoes are available even during the chilliest months? Greenhouse growing plays a major role in supporting British consumers throughout winter.

• Controlled temperatures protect crops from extreme weather.
• Efficient irrigation systems reduce water waste.
• Integrated pest management minimises chemical use.
• Sustainable heating keeps vines healthy during the coldest months.
• Local distribution ensures tomatoes reach shops quickly, preserving freshness.

December is a tough month for traditional farming, but innovative growing techniques allow R&L Holt to deliver high-quality produce year-round.

Greenhouse farming not only benefits consumers, it contributes to a more sustainable UK food system.

Did you know tomatoes often lose their flavour when stored incorrectly? In winter, when kitchen temperatures vary, proper storage is even more important. Here’s how to keep your tomatoes fresh and tasty for longer.

• Avoid the fridge: Cold temperatures dull flavour. Store tomatoes at room temperature whenever possible.
• Keep them stem-side down: This reduces air exposure and slows spoilage.
• Use breathable bowls: Avoid plastic bags; instead, store in ceramic bowls or on a countertop.
• Separate overly ripe tomatoes: One overripe tomato can speed up ripening of others.

Winter homes may feel cooler, but as long as tomatoes are kept away from draughts, they maintain their texture and flavour beautifully.

Proper storage means less waste — and more delicious meals made with R&L Holt tomatoes.

December might not be peak tomato season in the UK, but thanks to modern growing methods, you can still enjoy nutrient-rich, flavourful British tomatoes. Here’s why choosing fresh, responsibly grown tomatoes matters even during the winter months.

• Nutritional boost: Tomatoes remain a top source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and lycopene — all essential for immune support during cold and flu season.
• Sustainability: Choosing tomatoes grown locally reduces food miles compared to imported winter produce.
• Consistency: Controlled growing means reliable freshness, flavour, and quality, even when the weather outside is frosty.
• Versatility: Tomatoes can brighten hearty winter dishes such as stews, bakes, and festive platters.

This December, don’t overlook the humble tomato, it’s a small choice that supports local growers and boosts your winter wellbeing.

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.