Lemon Drop Cherry Tomatoes: A Gardener’s Delight
Introduction
Lemon Drop cherry tomatoes are a popular variety among gardeners due to their sweet taste, golden color, and compact size. They are a sport from Snow White cherry tomato plants, a happy accident that has become a favorite of many. In this article, we will explore the background, growing techniques, and culinary uses of Lemon Drop cherry tomatoes.
Background
The Lemon Drop cherry tomato is a cross between two tomato species. It was discovered by an elderly tomato breeder named J.T. Sessions, who recognized its potential and saved the seeds. He offered them for trade through the Seed Savers Exchange (SSE), and they quickly became a hit. Today, Lemon Drop cherry tomatoes are widely available at nurseries and in organic seed catalogs.
Growing Lemon Drop Cherry Tomatoes
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Seed Starting: Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last frost in flats ΒΌ inch deep. Keep them moderately moist and in bright indirect light.
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Transplanting: Harden off the plants before transplanting them outside. Choose a sunny location with organically amended soil. At planting time, bury the stem up to the first set of true leaves.
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Care: Water plants deeply once per week to really soak the roots. Pinch off suckers to force the energy into producing shoots. Avoid planting Lemon Drop cherry tomatoes where you have had tomatoes before, as crop rotation helps reduce pests and diseases.
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Harvesting: Harvest heirloom cherry tomatoes when they are firm but fully colored, as over ripe fruits can be mealy.
Culinary Uses
Lemon Drop cherry tomatoes are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
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Fresh: Enjoy them fresh as a snack or in salads.
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Sauce: Use them to make a sweet and tangy tomato sauce.
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Bruschetta: Top bruschetta with Lemon Drop cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Benefits of Growing Lemon Drop Cherry Tomatoes
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Easy to grow: Lemon Drop cherry tomatoes are a relatively easy variety to grow, even for beginners.
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Compact: Their compact size makes them ideal for small gardens or containers.
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Prolific: They produce an abundance of fruit throughout the summer.
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Delicious: Their sweet taste and golden color make them a favorite for eating fresh or cooking.
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Versatile: They can be used in a variety of culinary applications.
Conclusion
Lemon Drop cherry tomatoes are a delightful addition to any garden. Their ease of cultivation, compact size, and delicious flavor make them a popular choice among gardeners of all levels. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, give Lemon Drop cherry tomatoes a try and enjoy their golden goodness all summer long.
