Tomatoes are a member of the solium family of plants, which includes potatoes.
They originated growing wild in the Andes, where they were domesticated and cultivated around 500BC.
They are one of the most widely cultivated plants in the world today.
Fun facts about tomatoes:
Growing conditions are pretty standard, they like plenty of sun so choose north or west facing positions
Now is the time – mid- to late August – to prepare the soil, if growing in the ground. Mix plenty of well-composted compost with a good amount of chicken manure, for a well-developed root system, plus a good amount of potash, about a handful per plant, for good flower and fruit development.
You can plant established plants from mid-September through until mid- or late December.
By adding a small amount of baking soda – about a handful per plant – will lower soil acidity. You can also add an egg to each hole to help calcium deficiency.
Once developed – in two to three weeks – they should develop a nice purple stem.
Diseases:
Blossom rot is caused by calcium deficiency, so dusting with dolomite lime will eliminate this, and will also help to stop club foot, which is small lumps around the roots. The plant will appear limp and lifeless, as if it needs more water – in fact, the roots are actually rotting away, killing the plant.
Companion Plants:
Plants that flourish around tomatoes are basil, nasturtiums and English or French marigolds, which are all edible and help to keep the plants insect-free.
