Tomato Seed Planting Day has Come!

I'm excited! My order of tomato seeds and seed-starting plugs finally arrived! :)

The Mayo Clinic claims that "a high intake of lycopene-containing foods [such as tomatoes, especially, and other red fruits] reduce the incidence of cancer, cardiovascular disease and macular degeneration." Lycopene is a bright red carotene that acts as an anti-oxident. As a disclaimer, the Mayo Clinic also reports that "Since tomatoes are sources of other nutrients, including vitamin C, folate, and potassium, it is not clear that lycopene itself is beneficial." What has been proven in lab experiences is that tomatoes "reduce the incidence of cancer and cardiovascular disease". Apparently, they also help to keep our eyes healthy. Good to know, whether it's because of the lycopene, other nutrients or the combination!

This weekend I will be planting the tiny little seeds that will become the tomatoes for tomato sauce, salsa, juice and eventually make their way to my own table in Mediterranean and Mexican dishes. My grandchildren love the tomato soup made from the sauce. I also enjoy a glass of homegrown, homemade tomato juice when we have movie night with popcorn.

If you have never tried growing your own tomatoes, I highly recommend it. A couple of potted tomato plants can yield several pounds of tomatoes. Homegrown tomatoes, after using an Italian tomato press, produce such a sweet fresh flavor for your sauces! It's indescribable and nothing like any tomato or tomato sauce I've found in a store.

Today I have Gurney's Gurney Girl, Early Girl, and Cherry Tomato. I will also start a yellow tomato but have not decided which one. They're less acid, mellower in flavor, unless you go with an heirloom such as Heidi or a Mr. Stripey. Added to the red tomatoes, the yellow tomatoes give another layer of flavor, especially nice for juice, and I'm told the blend makes an absolutely delicious Bloody Mary!