Tomato and Basil

My balcony is thriving! Well, almost thriving. I’ve got some dying succulents – they hate being indoors, they hate being outdoors – a Tigerella tomato plant that’s about to outgrow its terracotta planter, and newly planted Amethyst Improved basil.

My tomato plant was generously gifted by a coworker. After successfully growing Czech’s Plant tomatoes last year, I decided a bigger plant couldn’t be too different. To anyone hesitant to grow tomatoes – they are easier than you think.

Tigerella is also known as Mr. Stripey. How cute is that?

I never knew basil came in purple! It’s going to look beautiful on a plate of striped tomatoes and fresh mozzarella. Unfortunately, it turns brownish gray when cooked or processed, making sauces look unappetizing. I guess I’ll have to buy the green variety if I want fresh pesto.

Growing produce is fun and easy in small doses, but it definitely gives me a new appreciation for farmers. Hungry for more agricultural knowledge? The Real Dirt on Farmer John is an excellent documentary about the struggles that come with farming and why we should join a local CSA.