Isn't the tomato really a fruit, some of you might ask? Botanically, yes, it is. In fact, it is a berry of the plant Solanum lycopersicum. But no matter which side you endorse in that debate (Ira Gershwin might say, "Let's call the whole thing off"), the tomato stands proudly as a favorite food source many cultures around the planet. We are joined by Haley Diem, the One Vegetable One Community Coordinator for the Duluth Community Garden Program, to talk about the DCGP's 2022 Vegetable of the Year.
The tomato plant isn't too hard to grow. They are hardy, and with a little pruning, attention, and space they can provide you with a food that most home gardeners will solemnly avow tastes unlike any tomato you can buy in the store. And, as Haley reminds us, there is "something so magical about knowing you can grow your own food."
For those who want to give it a try, in the early spring One Vegetable One Community will be distributing free tomato seeds at the Duluth Community Garden Program table at the Duluth Farmer's Market. The Siberian tomato variety was chosen for its "ability to set fruit at cooler temperatures, adaptation for a shorter growing season, and prolific red fruits. While they last, these seeds will also be available in [the DCHPs] four Little Free Seed Libraries across the city."
