The Joy (And Challenges) of Homegrown Tomatoes

Growing these delicious fruits (yes, fruits!) is surprisingly achievable, even for beginners.

Here in Fresno, with its warm, sunny climate, tomatoes thrive. Start by choosing your variety. Cherry tomatoes are perfect for snacking, while larger sliced tomatoes are ideal for sandwiches and salads. Heirloom varieties offer unique colors and flavors, but you should be prepared for slightly fussier plants.

Plant your seedlings after the last frost, usually around mid-April in Fresno. Amend your soil with compost for extra nutrients and plant your tomatoes in a sunny spot with good drainage. Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot spells.

As your plants grow, provide support with stakes or cages. Pinch off suckers, the small shoots that appear between the main stem and branches, to encourage the plant to focus its energy on producing fruit.

Keep an eye out for common tomato problems like blossom end rot (easily remedied by adding calcium to the soil) and early blight (treatable with fungicide).

With a little care, you'll be rewarded with an abundance of juicy tomatoes throughout the summer. Harvest them when they reach full color and enjoy the satisfaction of a delicious, homegrown meal.