Tomato Triumph

this year's finest

This season, I grew 14 different varieties of tomatoes, many of them completely new to me. It's been quite the experience, and I must say, different varieties are so unique, they're almost like different fruits entirely. Some of my favourite meals this summer have been simple tomato salads featuring a mix of these varieties – it’s been a real eye-opener!

Some are sharp, juicy, and acidic, while others are rich, aromatic, and mellow. A few were incredibly prolific and made for fantastic roasters. The colours alone have been a joy: from fluorescent yellow to gold, amber to orange, crimson to garnet, and even purple to black. A true rainbow of tomatoes!

When the plants get bigger and head to the greenhouse, I have to admit, tomatoes become more demanding than chillies. They need very regular care to stay happy. But honestly, spending an hour or so, two or three times a week, makes all the difference – the payoff is a much bigger and better harvest.

Click on the hotspots below (or a firm press on your phone) to uncover each chilli and get a glimpse of what makes them intriguing. I hope you'll join me in 2025 growing tomatoes!

Here's my tomato care checklist for keeping them thriving:

• Large pot: Make sure they’re in a big enough pot – at least 20 litres. They need room to spread those roots.

• Regular watering and feeding: Consistent watering and feeding helps keep blossom end rot at bay and ensures they get enough nutrients for optimum growth.

• Stake and support: Tall, indeterminate varieties need a good stake or support to keep them upright and growing strong.

• Prick out side shoots: Keep up with regularly pinching out side shoots and removing lower leaves on indeterminates. It helps keep the plants well-ventilated and ensures energy is going to the fruits, not unnecessary foliage.

• Pick regularly: Harvesting often is key – fruits don’t like to sit around on the plant for long before they start splitting, turning to mush, or even rotting. The more you pick, the more the plants will produce.

• Keep an eye on pests: Especially with bush varieties, there are loads of little hiding spots for slugs and snails, and they can really wreak havoc. Keeping plants off the ground helps a lot.

• Grow different varieties: Experiment with different varieties for a range of flavours and uses. It’s much more fun, and you’ll always have the perfect tomato for whatever you’re cooking up!