The French called the tomato the pomme d'amour, or the Love Apple, for their belief that the exotic tomato had aphrodisiac powers. Tomatoes might not be responsible for romance in people, but eating tomatoes does seem to spark a lust for more tomatoes. (Google)
From sandwiches to salad to sauce their versatality and flavor make them favorites.
They can be tricky. Susceptible to disease and they are well liked by insects and birds alike.
Interesting to note that the tomato is originally from South America, specifically around the region where Mexico is. The Aztecs took it back to Spain where it became popular and then when the Europeans migrated to North America, they brought 'the tomato' with them.
I remember the first year farming. Just 3/4's of an acre then. I had 900 tomato plants in the ground. That seemed like a lot and I hadn't any irrigation. In typical tomato dramatic like fashion they were all wilting in the hot sun...crying out that they were soon to die. I sold a share that allowed me to rush to Lowes and there, in the plumbing department was Dave. Dave was a nice fellow. Proud to be in charge and ready for whatever the day brought.
Or so he thought.
In comes Mike. A man on a mission.
"Dave we have 900 tomato plants to save and YOU are going to help me get that done!"
Startled but compliant he worked alongside me as I referenced my sketch taking up the entire far aisle, laying out lines and fittings trying to put together a solution that would work. We got there and I left with a cart full of stuff, leaving Dave, looking a little worse for the wear. Six hours later, the sprinkler heads were sputtering and spitting and a cascade of cool water droplets were falling onto to the leaves of those thirsty plants.
Phews!
Never did see Dave in plumbing again. I think he asked for a transfer...lol.
So the tomatoes have begun, along with the hot peppers and many other tasty gifts from the field and the greenhouse.
Enjoy :-)
~Michael
