Despite the unfortunate combination of a late start, a small infestation of green hornworms, and some unseasonably wet weather this summer, the tomatoes are beginning to do their thing. They are not a pretty site out there on their branches with just a few leaves, but the fruit looks good.
At last count we have 14 on the counter. Which means we will be having a tomato sandwich eating contest here Friday night.
Followed by a hot-water bath, ice-water blanch skin removal and freezing extravaganza Saturday morning. A bag of tomatoes in the freezer, ready to go for a December or January batch of tomato soup is a must.
After all that, I hope there will be just the right amount of tomatoes remaining to make a tomato pie.
And that might be the end of the Chris and Carol tomatoes for the year. This year's so-so crop will in no way dampen our enthusiasm when it comes time to plant next year. That's the beauty of gardening. Each season brings the possibility of new successes. That's how I like to look at it anyway.
love tomatoes and your enthusiasm ! When you will prepare the tomatoes, taste a small piece of the most beautiful and keep the seeds of the best only. After three days in a glass of water at room temperature, rinse before gently drying in the open air if possible. Put in sachet (kraf paper preferably) ... to plant next year!
Posted by: isabelledj | 08/30/2017 at 09:25 PM
Our crop this year was less than even so-so. We've had a few tomatoes and a total of three cucumbers, so kind of a bust. I had high hopes, but better luck next year.
Posted by: Judy H. | 08/31/2017 at 10:24 PM