Learn about the organic practices to grow amazing heirloom tomatoes.
Tomatoes are the most commonly grown plant in home gardens- and for good reason! Not only are fresh tomatoes delicious, they also have many health benefits and essential nutrients. Organic heirloom tomatoes are rich in Vitamin C and K, protect cardiovascular health, and are high in lycopene, a kind of carotenoid that helps with the prevention of cancer. Continue reading to learn about the best organic practices to grow your own heirloom tomatoes, and be sure to stop by Giolitti’s Deli to try our tomatoes in this week’s salad special!
Growing Heirloom Tomatoes
Since the biggest concern with growing organic heirloom tomatoes is disease, the most effective practice is to use grafted plants. Grafted heirlooms produce yields up to 50% greater than non-grafted heirlooms, and are more disease-resistant.
Heirloom tomatoes also do better in high tunnels where their foliage says dry, as moist conditions lead to more tomato disease. Heirloom tomatoes are fast growers, meaning that they need to be pruned more often. Pruning provides better air circulation and encourages larger fruit production at the top of the plant. Planting your tomorrows with wide alleys between rows is also a great way to increase air circulation and prevent disease.
While you want to ensure your tomatoes get enough water, overwatering is an issue that can make the fruit split on the vine, dilute the flavor, or cause blossom end rot. Be sure to water in small batches and only when it is required for the best results.
Giolitti Deli’s Specials
Each week, we have delicious sandwich, pasta, and salad specials on the menu. Be sure to stop by this week to try our fresh tomatoes in this week’s salad special, consisting of fresh tomato salad and croutons on romaine Lettuce with cucumbers, pulled roasted chicken, and fresh basil served with a passion fruit vinaigrette.
Authentic Italian Cuisine From Giolitti Deli
Giolitti Deli is a full-service Delicatessen in Annapolis, MD, specializing in authentic Italian cuisine. Founded in 1992, we use the freshest ingredients to make time-honed recipes from scratch, with no MSG or preservatives. We believe in real food and offer many healthy options, including vegetarian and vegan menu items. At Giolitti Deli, we make our own sauces, mozzarella, grilled and roasted vegetables, bread, pizza dough, and desserts, and our sandwiches, salads, pasta, pizza, and entrees are made to order. Owner Mary Giolitti has combined her passion for great food and fine wine to offer Annapolis a true taste of Italy!
Team members who also make the business possible include Manager Kathy Hunter, Manager and Catering Director Cheryl Molesky, Head Baker Porfirio Diaz, Chef Alfredo Escobar, and Deli Manager Noe Merino. To contact us, please visit our contact page or give us a call at 410.266.8600. Also, be sure to keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and our blog!
Tags: Giolitti Deli, organic, salad, specials, tomatoes