By Mindy McIntosh-Shetter

Many years ago I discovered the epic tell of the paper, hand, and seed.

While it is not as impressive as the movie Titanic or as classical as Romeo and Juliet it still weaves a level of intrigue that only horticulture can bring to the big screen.

One may wonder how can paper, a hand, and seed weave a tale that could be compared to such great stories as those mentioned and the answer is it deals with dilemma that every gardener faces when it comes time to start seed.

The dilemma I refer to how deep to plant the seed.

Every spring the excited gardener gets out the equipment needed to start the first seed of the New Year. They fill the flats with soil, write the tags out, organize the seed packets, and start to plant. Some may purchase a store-bought seeder to handle those seemingly microscopic seeds that seem to be impossible to plant at the proper depth.

Some individuals may choose to wing it and cast caution into the wind along with their seed. This approach only works for Read the rest of this entry »

By Mindy McIntosh-Shetter

Variety is the spice of life is a saying that not only applies to life but also the tomato garden.

Planning for this variety takes a little time, seed catalogs, and a little understanding about tomatoes.

Understanding the different types of tomatoes and how they can be used to create a full-season of tomatoes is the key. Growth habit of tomatoes can be a friend or a foe to any gardener.

Midget, patio or dwarf tomatoes are compact plants that grow in container or hanging baskets. They typically only produce for a short time and once that production is complete they are done for the season.

Determinate tomatoes go to a certain height, produce all their fruit early and in a short amount of time.

Once the fruit has been produced the plant is finished as far as fruit production. Then there is Read the rest of this entry »

By Guest Writer Penny Mohney of Penny’s Tomatoes

Due to an increasing awareness of nutritional issues, salsas have become the best selling condiments in North America.

This is largely because they are low in cholesterol, fat, and calories and because they provide a great way to add flavor to even the dullest of dishes.

Salsas are traditionally spicy and vegetable based and can be cooked or uncooked.

There are as many variations of salsa as there are of Spaghetti Sauce so you might have to do a little experimenting. Tomato salsas are great with chicken or beef but you might want to try a mango based salsa over fish tacos or even pork tenderloin.

A sweet Pineapple based salsa goes Read the rest of this entry »

By David Harbilas

Chunky aioli sauces are not often appealing, especially considering that their purpose is often to be spread on a sandwich.

This aioli makes use of a smooth roasted tomato and fennel puree, balancing the vinegar of the aioli with a sweet quality.

The sauce goes well with fish, chicken, and beef, as well as roasted or raw vegetables as a dip.

Makes 2 cups of aioli

• 1 cup aioli or store-bought mayonnaise
• 3 plum tomatoes, cut in half lengthwise
• 1 head of fennel, sliced
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 tablespoon honey Read the rest of this entry »

By David Harbilas

Homemade condiments like ketchup are not hard to make, yet they are often overlooked or seen as an unnecessary chore.

For something out of the ordinary, try this simple variation that requires little more than a few roasted, pureed vegetables added to commercial, prepared ketchup.

The result can transform a boring burger or chicken sandwich into something a bit more exciting and memorable.

Makes about 3 cups of ketchup

• 4 plum tomatoes, cut in half lengthwise
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 head of fennel, sliced
• 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
• 2 cups prepared ketchup
• salt and pepper
• olive oil

Preheat an oven to 400 degrees. Place the tomatoes Read the rest of this entry »

By Guest Writer Penny Mohney of Penny’s Tomatoes

If you are thinking about starting your own compost pile think about this.

With just a little knowledge you can turn your everyday garbage into nutrient rich fertilizer for your yard or garden and the best part is…it’s organic.

Let’s start with your container.

You can buy or build something to house your compost pile.  A wooden frame (like a sandbox) made out of 2×10’s (or what ever) in the corner of our yard will work great. Add your scraps to it on a daily basis and “stir” or “fluff” it up 2 to 3 times a week.

Many materials can be added to a compost pile, including Read the rest of this entry »