We meet again, My-Lar

[jikme]

Yes, it's tomato time again. Longtime fans and stalkers will know that I can't resist planting tomatoes, and that it's usually a great big failure. The first time was in 2001, back in Saint David, Arizona, and the sucking was truly epic. Then I tried in 2006, here in Tucson, and an auspicious start just didn't pan out. I think our neighbors

Comments

[r_wolfcastle]

FWIW, I found that Brandywine heirlooms did very well in our summers here where the temps often exceed 100F in our pool area where they were planted, and that was with no shading whatsoever. They produce HUGE (1-2 lbs. each) delicious purple tomatoes.

Then I found that I could buy them in late summer for about $2/lb., and my interest in growing them waned considerably.

[jikme]

Interesting. I've seen Brandywine plants at some of the local garden stores, but the consensus online is that it doesn't do well in the desert. Otherwise I'd definitely be growing it -- it's at the top of my "if I ever move back to a normal climate" list.

When you say the temps often exceed 100°, what do you mean by "often"? Are most days that hot? From June through September the high temps here are almost never lower than 95°, and frequently higher than 100°. Perhaps that's the difference?

[r_wolfcastle]

Oh, it's not nearly as bad here. My Dad lived in Vegas (Henderson) for years, so I know desert heat

[shadowsmark]

Good luck with the tomatoes! We're getting close to actually doing a bit of something in the garden of our new rental, and you're inspiring me :).

Impressive Tomato Activity

[maggiebex]

I read all your planning and efforts, and saw the lovely photos of your success.

Honestly, I don't think I could have the dedication! I plant tomato plants that I get already sprouted from the garden shop. I plant them in a blend of compost and potting soil. then I water thema, dn stake as necessary.

That's it.

Maybe that's why my neighbors refer to last year's plants as Charlie Brown Christmas Tomatoes...