(Slicer tomatoes)
This year’s crop has already exceeded my pitiful tomato harvest for 2022. It was a bust. I planted tomatoes from seeds last year and the spindly plants never had a chance. This spring I went to the Corner Store Garden Center and bought my plants. I didn’t look at the variety, I just bought the ones that looked healthiest. Two of my plants are called Slicer Tomatoes and they are off to a good start.
Slicers are said to be the quintessential tomato enjoyed at every summer picnic. They’re round, and juicy. Perfect for slicing onto burgers, sandwiches, and subs, or fanning out on deli trays. They strike a nice balance between meatiness and juiciness. They are also advertised as “Fourth of July” tomatoes, and sure enough, on the night of the 4th, I made a big BLT with the first of my crop – and they were delicious.
I had no idea, though, how many different varieties there are of tomatoes. The Big Boys and Better Boys, for example, have about 50 different varieties and there are endless numbers of Heirloom tomatoes. Then there are Rutgers, Beefsteak, Romas, and the list goes on. There are thousands and thousands of tomato varieties, which is pretty daunting when you buy seeds or young plants. It’s sheer guess work for backyard gardeners. But so far, I think I made a good choice with the Slicers.
Also, this is the first year I have not had at least some end rot on the first pickings. That’s because I put crushed eggshells near the roots of my young plants. Calcium is a game changer. Next year? Who knows? I guess I’ll buy the plants that look healthy and hope for the best – and I will always supplement my tomatoes with eggshells.