Category: News

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.

As we progress through British Tomato Fortnight 2024, it’s time to carry on celebrating one of the nation’s most beloved produce!

This annual event shines a spotlight on the vibrant, juicy tomatoes grown right here in the UK. From enhancing our meals to supporting local agriculture, British Tomato Fortnight offers numerous reasons to appreciate this versatile fruit

1. Fresh and Flavourful Local Produce:

British Tomato Fortnight is the perfect opportunity to savour the exceptional taste and quality of locally grown tomatoes. Unlike imported tomatoes, which may travel long distances before reaching our shelves, British tomatoes are harvested at their peak ripeness and can be enjoyed much sooner after picking. This means they are fresher, juicier, and packed with more nutrients. The wide variety of British tomatoes available – from sweet cherry tomatoes to meaty beefsteaks – ensures there’s a perfect option for every dish. By choosing British tomatoes, we can enjoy the best flavours while supporting local farmers and reducing our carbon footprint.

2. Promoting Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices:

The British tomato industry is committed to sustainable farming practices that prioritise environmental health and resource efficiency. Many British tomato growers use advanced greenhouse technology, which allows for precise control over growing conditions, leading to reduced water usage and minimal pesticide application. Additionally, local tomato production means fewer food miles, cutting down on the carbon emissions associated with transportation. By celebrating and supporting British Tomato Fortnight, we can encourage these eco-friendly practices and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

3. Strengthening Community and Local Economy:

British Tomato Fortnight is not just about enjoying delicious tomatoes; it’s also about fostering a sense of community and supporting the local economy. When we purchase British tomatoes, we help sustain the livelihoods of local farmers and workers involved in the tomato supply chain. This event also offers a chance for communities to come together through farmers’ markets, food festivals, and cooking demonstrations that showcase the versatility of British tomatoes. By participating in these activities, we can build stronger connections with our food sources and appreciate the hard work that goes into bringing fresh produce to our tables.

So, let’s make the most of this fortnight by incorporating more British tomatoes into our meals and participating in events that highlight the importance of supporting local produce. Happy British Tomato Fortnight!

As nature awakens from the winter and spring emerges as a pivotal season for tomato cultivation, what better time is there to celebrate the success of spring in tomato cultivation? From seed to harvest, the journey of tomatoes unfolds against the backdrop of spring’s transformative beauty. Let’s delve into three key reasons why spring holds such significance for tomatoes:

1. Ideal growing conditions

Spring heralds the arrival of milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, creating optimal conditions for the growth and development of tomato plants. As the soil begins to warm up, gardeners eagerly prepare their plots and containers for the planting season. Tomatoes thrive in the balmy days and cool nights of spring.

2. Transplanting

Spring marks the opportune moment for transplanting tomato seedlings into the garden or larger containers, providing them with ample time to establish strong root systems and acclimate to their new surroundings before the heat of summer arrives. With careful attention to spacing, soil preparation, and proper watering, gardeners lay the foundation for healthy, productive tomato plants that will bear fruit throughout the summer months.

3. Pollination and fruit set

As spring unfolds and tomato plants mature, bees, butterflies, and other insects play a crucial role in the pollination process of tomatoes, transferring pollen from flower to flower and ensuring the successful fertilization of tomato blossoms.

Spring serves as a time of renewal and growth for tomatoes, offering ideal conditions for planting, transplanting, and pollination. With each passing day, tomato plants respond to the warmth and vitality of spring with its optimum time to grow.

As Sun Awareness Week serves as a reminder of the vital role that sunlight plays in nurturing life on our planet. For tomato enthusiasts, this week holds particular significance—a time to reflect on the profound impact of sunshine in the cultivation of these vibrant fruits. Join us as we explore the importance of sun awareness when growing tomatoes and celebrate the connection between sunlight and tomato health:

1. Fuelling tomato growth with sunlight

Sunlight is the primary source of energy for plants, driving the process of photosynthesis. In the case of tomatoes, sunlight fuels the synthesis of sugars and carbohydrates within the plant, providing the essential nutrients needed for growth, flowering, and fruit production. Exposure to sunlight is crucial for healthy tomato plants, ensuring growth. When planning your tomato garden, choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day, providing the optimal conditions for photosynthesis to work its magic.

2. Enhancing tomato flavour and nutrition

Beyond its role in photosynthesis, sunlight plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavour and nutritional value of tomatoes. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation stimulates the production of phytochemicals such as flavonoids and carotenoids, which contribute to the distinctive taste and vibrant colour of ripe tomatoes.

3. Protecting tomato plants from harmful effects

While sunlight is essential for tomato cultivation, it’s important to strike a balance and be aware of the risks associated with excessive sun exposure. Intense sunlight and high temperatures can lead to sunburn and heat stress in tomato plants, causing leaf scorch, wilting, and diminished fruit quality. To protect your tomato plants from sun-related damage, provide shade during the hottest part of the day using shade cloth or row covers.

As the blossoms of spring fills the landscape and the air fills with the promise of new beginnings, National Gardening Week emerges as an opportunity to reconnect with the earth and cultivate green spaces that nourish body and soul.

For tomato enthusiasts, this week holds a special significance—a chance to revel in the joys of tending to these vibrant fruits and nurturing them to their full potential. Here are three essential tips for caring for your tomato plants during National Gardening Week:

1. Planting with purpose

The journey of tomato cultivation begins with thoughtful planning and preparation. Choose a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily, providing the ideal environment for successful tomato growth. Ensure the soil is well-drained and enriched with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to promote healthy root development and nutrient uptake. When planting seedlings or transplants, bury them deep in the soil, up to the first set of leaves, to encourage sturdy root systems and resilient plants.

2. Nurturing tender shoots

As your tomato plants grow from the soil, it’s essential to provide them with the care and attention they require to flourish. Regular watering is crucial, particularly during dry spells, to prevent the soil from drying out and ensure consistent moisture levels for optimal growth.

3. Cultivating with care

As the warm days of summer come closer and closer, your tomato plants will reach their peak of productivity. Harvesting tomatoes at their peak of ripeness ensures optimal flavour and nutrition, so keep an eye on your plants and pick fruits as they mature. Gently twist or cut ripe tomatoes from the vine, taking care not to damage the plant or surrounding foliage.

As we celebrate National Gardening Week, let us embrace the simple pleasures of tending to our toms and enjoying their delicious flavours!

The tomato, with its juicy texture and vibrant colour, holds a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts and gardeners alike. Beyond its culinary versatility, tomatoes boast a rich tapestry of history and intriguing characteristics. In the midst of the growing season as we get closer to summer, here are three fascinating facts about tomatoes that we hope you find as interesting as we do!

1. A Berry Disguised as a Vegetable

While commonly perceived as a vegetable in culinary contexts, the tomato is botanically classified as a fruit. In fact, it belongs to the family Solanaceae, which includes other fruit-bearing plants such as potatoes, eggplants, and peppers. Botanically speaking, a fruit is defined as the mature ovary of a flowering plant, containing seeds. By this definition, tomatoes fit the bill perfectly, as they develop from the fertilized ovary of a tomato flower and contain seeds within their flesh. So, the next time you bite into a juicy tomato, remember that you’re enjoying a delicious fruit masquerading as a vegetable!

2. The Tomato’s Colourful Past

In centuries past, tomatoes were regarded with suspicion and fear in certain regions of the world. This distrust stemmed from their physical resemblance to the highly toxic plant known as deadly nightshade, which belongs to the same botanical family as tomatoes. As a result, tomatoes were shunned as a culinary ingredient in many European countries, including England and parts of Italy. However, perceptions began to shift in the 18th century, thanks in part to the efforts of pioneering individuals such as Thomas Jefferson, who cultivated tomatoes in his garden and introduced them to the American culinary landscape. Today, tomatoes are celebrated worldwide for their flavour and versatility – which we’re certainly glad about!

3. A Fruit of Many Colours

While the classic red tomato may be the most familiar variety, tomatoes come in a mix of colours, shapes, and sizes. From golden yellows and vibrant oranges to deep purples and striped patterns, heirloom tomatoes offer a visual feast for the eyes. These heirloom varieties, prized for their diverse flavours and unique characteristics, have experienced a resurgence in popularity among home gardeners and chefs in recent years.

Which fact were you most surprised by? Let us know!