Polytunnel Myths
Polytunnels, or plastic-covered tunnels used for growing crops and plants, are widely popular among gardeners and farmers. However, there are several misconceptions about their functionality, maintenance, and effectiveness.
Beginners Guide to Growing Tomato Plants
Growing tomato plants can be a rewarding experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener. Here's a beginner's guide to help you grow healthy and productive tomato plants from start to finish, including heirloom / heritage tomatoes, hybrid tomatoes, determinate tomatoes and indeterminate tomatoes.
Forest School Activity Ideas
Forest schools provide children with the opportunity to explore and learn in nature. Activities in a forest school setting should be fun, educational, and adaptable for different age groups.
Tomato Competitions
Tomato competitions are events where enthusiasts, gardeners, and farmers come together to showcase their best tomatoes.
Tomato Blight
Tomato blight is a common disease that affects tomato plants, caused by various fungal pathogens. The two most common types of blight that affect tomatoes are Early Blight and Late Blight.
Kaizen - Continuous Improvement
Kaizen is a Japanese philosophy and practice of continuous improvement, widely known in business and manufacturing but applicable to personal development, agriculture, education, and daily life.
Tomato Fertilisers / Fertilizers - NPK - Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus(P), Potassium (K)
Tomato fertilizers are designed to provide essential nutrients that tomatoes need for healthy growth and high yields. Fertilizers typically contain a mix of macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and micronutrients (calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and trace elements). Understanding the role of these ingredients helps in choosing the right fertilizer for your tomato plants.
What is the Difference Between Heirloom Tomatoes and Heritage Tomatoes?
The terms heirloom and heritage tomatoes are often used interchangeably, but they have slightly different connotations, particularly in how they're commonly used.
Building a DIY Hoop House / Polytunnel
Building a DIY hoop house / polytunnel is a great way to extend your growing season, protect crops from harsh weather, and create a controlled environment for your plants.
What is the Difference Between Hydroponics and Aeroponics?
Hydroponics and aeroponics are both methods of growing plants without soil, but they differ in how they deliver nutrients and water to the plants.
Plants: Solanaceae Family
The Solanaceae family, commonly known as the nightshade family, is a diverse and economically significant family of flowering plants. It includes a wide range of species, many of which are important in agriculture, medicine, and horticulture.
How to Measure Moisture Content of Tomato Seeds
Measuring the moisture content of tomato seeds is an important step for determining their viability and ensuring proper storage conditions. If seeds are stored with too much moisture, they are prone to mould, fungal growth, and premature germination, which can reduce their shelf life and viability. Conversely, seeds that are too dry may have reduced vigor.
Farming Innovation for Tomatoes
Innovations in tomato farming have emerged to address challenges related to sustainability, yield, and efficiency. These technologies and practices combine advanced farming techniques with modern agricultural science to enhance the production of tomatoes, often with a focus on reducing environmental impact and maximizing output.
Innovative Technologies - Hydroponics
Hydroponics is an evolving field with many new innovations improving efficiency, sustainability, and scalability.
The History of Solanum Lycopersicum
The history of solanum lycopersicum (tomato) is a story of transformation from a small wild fruit in the Andes to a global culinary staple. Its journey through time reflects the interconnectedness of cultures, the evolution of agriculture, and the ongoing quest to improve and enjoy one of the world's most beloved fruits.
Black Russian Tomato
The Black Russian tomato is a unique heirloom variety known for its dark, rich colour and deep, sweet flavour. Unlike standard red tomatoes, Black Russian tomatoes have a distinctive dark purple to almost black hue, which comes from their high anthocyanin content—a powerful antioxidant. This tomato variety is prized for its juicy texture and a flavour that is both sweet and slightly smoky, with complex undertones that make it a favorite among tomato connoisseurs.
Mozzarella, Tomatoes, Fresh Basil, Olive Oil and Sourdough
A dish of mozzarella, tomato, and basil on sourdough is a delicious and classic combination, often inspired by the Italian Caprese salad, but with a rustic twist by serving it on crusty sourdough bread.
Sunrise Tomatoes
Sunrise tomatoes are a unique and vibrant variety of tomatoes, known for their stunning colors and delicious taste.
What is Vertical Farming?
Vertical farming is a modern agricultural technique that involves growing crops in stacked layers, typically in controlled indoor environments. This method maximizes the use of space and allows for farming in urban areas or other locations where horizontal land space is limited. Vertical farming can utilize various growing methods, including hydroponics, aeroponics, and traditional soil-based systems.
Chadwick Cherry Tomatoes
Chadwick Cherry tomatoes are a beloved heirloom variety known for their exceptional flavour and vigorous growth