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Category: Organic Food

  • Growing Hatch Chiles

    Growing Hatch Chiles

    Hatch chiles are one of the most famous and loved pepper grown and harvested in the Hatch Valley region of New Mexico. Now, let’s look into growing Hatch chiles pepper.

    Although they are referred to as Hatch chiles peppers, they are not just peculiar to the region of Hatch Valley in New Mexico. The good thing about growing the Hatch chiles pepper is that it can be grown in other states or areas apart from the Hatch region in New Mexico.

    So, if you’re a fan of Hatch green chiles and you wish to learn how to grow this great-tasting pepper, then this is it. So, continue reading to gain some knowledge about growing Hatch chiles pepper, the uses or application of this pepper, and so on.

    A Little About The Hatch Chile Plant

    Hatch chiles pepper is a staple to New Mexico in which most people love to make use of in their various dishes. It offers this smoky and tasty flavor you can’t resist. Therefore, it won’t be a bad idea to add them to your vegetable garden so you can always have them at your disposal.

    Even though the official name of this type of chili pepper is Hatch chiles. That doesn’t mean they can only be grown in the Hatch region of New Mexico.

    A Little About The Hatch Chile Plant

    Most New Mexico residence can attest to the fact that this chili pepper tastes better than any type of chili pepper you can ever have or even throughout the United States. Just like every other pepper plant, this type of pepper loves a long and hot growing season.

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    Green Chile Plant: Growing Hatch Chiles

    Growing Hatch chiles pepper is pretty easy and this is what we will be discussing below:

    1.    The Long And Warm Growing Season For Hatch Chiles Pepper

    Ideally, peppers prefer a long and warm growing season and so do Hatch chiles pepper. In the United States, the Hatch chiles will thrive well in regions 5 to 11.

    Most times, seeds are commenced indoors in a warm place for about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. This is to allow them to grow strong before transplanting them outdoors. This is one secrete to germinating chiles pepper seeds and this is by maintaining a warm surrounding.

    The temperature of the soil before transplanting needs to be between 80 degrees Fahrenheit to 90 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.

    When you have achieved good germination of the chili seeds, you can keep them under grow lights or in a sunny spot. This is so they can continue growing strong until the soil has warmed up and they are ready to be transplanted.

    It is important for the soil to warm up as well as the night soil. This will help the chiles pepper thrives optimally as any frost will destroy peppers.

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    2.    Provide Air Circulation To Sprouted Seeds

    You can set up a fan to low airflow to help air circulation. Doing this will help your Hatch chiles grow stronger and it will prepare them for outdoor planting.

    Provide Air Circulation To Sprouted Seeds

    3.    Hardening Off Your Hatch Chiles Pepper

    Your germinating Hatch chiles need to be hardened off. Do this by bringing them taking them outdoors gradually during the day. Then once the night temperature is over 50 or 60 degrees Fahrenheit, you can leave them outdoors overnight and begin plans for transplanting.

    Then when they have acclimated adequately to the sun, you can transplant your Hatch chiles in a sunny spot.

    4.    Watering Needs

    Also, water your plant regularly as required. While they are still in their seedlings stage, ensure you water appropriately and avoid overwatering. Don’t allow the soil to go soggy as this is bad for the growing plant. Allow the soil to dry out a bit between watering.

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    5.    Fertilization With Compost

    Ensure your garden soil has been amended with compost before transplanting. Usually, finished compost is dug deep down into the soil so the roots can grow into it.

    Also, ensure fresh compost is kept far away from the stem of the Hatch chiles pepper. This is because this can burn the plants.

    The good thing about using compost as fertilizer is that it is a natural form of fertilizer. It also promotes beneficial soil organisms activities in the soil that tends to assist your Hatch chiles plant to flourish and grow optimally.

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    Harvesting Hatch Green Chile Plant

    Harvesting of Hatch chiles pepper is typically done in August and September each year. However, the season can be prolonged for just a couple of weeks on either side and this will majorly depend on the weather.

    You can harvest either green Hatch chiles or red Hatch chiles pepper. The only difference is the color and their maturation stage.

    The green Hatch chiles are harvested when they are still immature and still green. The red Hatch chiles pepper can be harvested by allowing the green pepper to remain on the vine to ripen and turn red.

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    What Does Hatch Chiles Taste Like?

    Hatch chiles have this earthy flavor. They have a similar flavor to Anaheim chili pepper. When they are eaten raw, they will offer you this crispy, spicy flavor, and a slight pungency that is similar to an onion.

    Applications

      • Hatch chiles are particularly used in various dishes in New Mexico. However, they are also widely used in various parts of the United States.

      • They can be used in making sauce, stews, and soups. They can also be chopped and cooked into chilis and other daily dishes.

      • Furthermore, they are pretty popular when it comes to making stuffed peppers. A roasted chile is also a popular application.

      • The Hatch chiles pepper can as well be eaten raw as it will offer a crisp, spicy flavor with a nice pungency that is similar to an onion.

      • Using this pepper fresh is pretty great for various dishes. However, the flavor of this pepper tends to radiate when they are roasted.

    FAQ’s

    How do you start Hatch chiles

    You can start them indoors and transplant them outside after frost. If you want to grow them from seed, you need to order them from a reputable company that has been selling high-quality seeds for many years. It is always best to plant your own plants rather than buy them from a store.

    When do I plant my hatch chile?

    You can plant your hatch chiles after all danger of frost has passed. You will know when this is because you will see the first leaves emerge on your chiles. You should have a little bit of shade to help your chile develop. The chiles do not like to sit in direct sunlight. They prefer a shady spot. Keep an eye on your chiles to make sure they are getting enough light. The more sun your chiles get, the larger they will grow. The first time you plant your chiles, you should cover them with a layer of soil. This will help them grow properly. Be sure to keep them moist as they grow. The soil should be damp but not so wet that it puddles around the plants. If your chiles start to rot or turn black, remove them from the pot and throw them out. When you have your chiles planted, you need to water them regularly.

    Where do they grow best?

    Hatch chile plants grow very well in hot and dry climates, but will be hardy only down to USDA Zone 3. In cooler zones, they may not produce any fruit at all. The flowers of the Hatch chile are white or pink and grow in large clusters.

    How tall do Hatch chiles grow?

    The average mature size of a Hatch chile is about 8 inches (20 cm) in length, with a circumference of about 2.5 inches (6 cm).

    What is a Hatch chili?

    A Hatch chili is a cross between a Jalapeno and a Habanero. The name comes from the fact that these peppers were first grown by farmers in Hatch, New Mexico. These peppers are used as a spice in Mexican dishes.

    How do Hatch chilis grow best?

    Hatch chilis are raised in a green house. The plants are grown from seeds that have been soaked for a few days before being planted. The plants are then watered regularly and fertilized with a fertilizer that contains trace elements. The plants are grown in soil in a greenhouse, which is protected by a glass or plastic covering.

    Conclusion

    Growing Hatch chiles pepper is pretty easy if you have the right knowledge to go about it.

    From the information we have highlighted above, we hope you’ve been able to gain some knowledge about growing Hatch chiles peppers.

  • A list Of Vegetables That Grow In Hot Weather

    A list Of Vegetables That Grow In Hot Weather

    It is possible to grow vegetables that grow in hot weather as long as you know when to plant them and the exact vegetables to go for.

    Most gardeners are afraid that the summer heat will destroy their crops. But this is only possible if you do not plant the right crop at the right time.

    If you experience the hot summer season, it is critical to plant suitable hot weather vegetables that thrive in hot weather. Failure to do so you will lose your group and your precious seeds to the sun.

    Here are some top choices of summer vegetables to plant that will give you a harvest through the summer and fall seasons.

    Vegetables That Grow In Hot Weather

    Sweet potatoes

    Sweet potatoes love the hot weather -hot days and warm nights. Once you plant your sweet potatoes, keep an eye on the seedlings until their well-established. And sure that you water them adequately to keep the soil moist until they form into vines and begin to spread across the ground.

    Sweet potatoes need little to no attention, especially once they get established. Within 90 days, you can start harvesting your sweet potatoes and enjoy some fantastic recipes. Sweet potatoes need no weeding and can be easily preserved by storing in a root cellar throughout summer and fall.

    Bell peppers

    These papers are easy to grow and thrive during the warm summer months, full stop the slightly sweet and not all spicy and can be enjoyed in salads stews, and sandwiches. Gardeners in the south need to look for nematode-resistant varieties when growing. You can grow yellow, orange, red, or green bell peppers.

    Okra

    Okra is a self-sufficient plant that adapts well in dry, hot conditions. It is widely considered heat and drought-tolerant in most climates worldwide. Whether you plan to enjoy it fried or pickled or toss it into a soup, it is a beautiful plant to grow in your summer garden.

    Okra has a deeper root system suitable for hot weather conditions and is less susceptible to nematode problems.

    Hot peppers

    Hot peppers thrive during the summer months. They start producing from spring to fall with no problems in most hot climates. Some hot pepper varieties slow down the production slightly during the warmer months but increase flavor and heat intensity. The hotter peppers do not slow down in production during the summer at all. Hot peppers grow all around the world during the hot climate.

    Eggplant

    Eggplant takes the crown for being the best summer crop in all the members of the solanaceous family. The globe-shaped Mediterranean eggplants or the elongated Asian varieties are the best for the hot season.

    Growing an heirloom plant is never a bad idea. The more popular black beauty is suitable for Southern America and has a high success rate. It can endure the most intensely hot and humid climates in the world.

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    Cucumber

    Who would think that cucumbers can thrive in the summer? Cucumbers require nutritious and moist soil and a whole lot of sun to give you good produce. A few plants can provide you with plenty of cucumbers to enjoy the whole season. You will likely have more than enough for the summer season which you can always make pickles or enjoy salads throughout the year.

    Zucchini

    Squash is the summer and winter crop, best in hot weather environments. If you live in a region where the squash bugs or vine borers are an issue, avoid them by starting your seeds indoors and transplanting the seedlings outside in late June or early July. Use row covers to protect your plants until they begin to bloom; then, you will have escaped the problems these pests bring. You can also cover their stems with soil to protect against the vine borer as your plants mature.

    Corn

    Corn is one of the most popular summer vegetables that you can grow quickly. This mild-tasting vegetable can be grown with little maintenance making it a common choice among many gardeners during summer. Corn tastes excellent on anything salads, soups, wraps, pizza, chili, and anything else you can think of.

    Ensure that your corn plants are well-watered; keep an eye out for worms that love to munch on the ears of your plants. If you notice any, remove them and put them in your compost pile, where they will work to the benefit of your garden.

    Southern peas

    Cowpeas or Southern peas are easy to grow and very versatile. When the pods are young, you can munch on them in the same way you do with snap beans. When mature, the green snap peas make an excellent side dish or a salad topping. You may dry them and store them to cook and eat anytime you wish.

    Spinach

    Malabar and New Zealand spinach are the best to grow in the warm season. Malabar spinach is a vining plant producing tasty nutrient-rich foliage that you can use for salad green or cook into a delicious side dish. It thrives in climates that have over 90° temperatures throughout the summer.

    The New Zealand spinach is not an actual type of spinach. However, it produces lots of leaves during hot weather and can be used as a spinach replacement.

    hot weather vegetables

    Beans

    Green beans and yard-long beans will do well in hot weather. Yard-long beans have a nutty, sweet flavor, also known as asparagus beans. They can be grown on teepees and provide shade for me buying plants that do not love direct sunlight

    Green beans are an excellent choice for the summer veggie garden. Choose pole beans so that they can give you a long steady season of production or bush beans for a quick crop.

    Tomatoes

    Tomatillos and other southern species are excellent for sauces, salsas, and dressing pasta and thrive during the hot weather. These heat-loving fruits grow prolifically in the wild and the garden.

    Tomatoes are an excellent choice for summer gardens, with the best varieties being tropic VFN, Neptune, and Ozark pink VF.

    FAQs

    What vegetable grows best in the heat?

    If you’re in a region of the country that has a hot climate, you might be wondering what vegetable grows best in the heat. The answer is cucumbers. Cucumbers are a crop that can grow well in almost any climate. They don’t like cold weather, but they’ll do just fine if the temperatures are in the 70s or higher. The hotter the better

    How hot is too hot for vegetables?

    Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, eggplant, carrots, lettuce, and herbs all do well in the heat. However over 90 degrees Farenheit might be too much heat for them

    Too hot soil will kill the roots of your plants, making them susceptible to disease. The best way to gauge your soil’s temperature is with a digital thermometer. However, you can also use your hand as a gauge to determine whether or not your soil is too hot.

    Can lettuce be grown in hot weather?

    If you are going to grow lettuce in your garden, I would recommend planting it when the soil is cool (60-70 degrees F) and then transplanting it into a garden bed at the time you want it to mature.

    How do you garden in hot weather?

    There are things you can do to help yourself and your plants.

    Watering with a hose or sprinkler works great in a well-drained area. But if you live in an area where the soil is clay or sandy, water your plants from the top down using a soaker hose, which will allow water to soak into the soil for a longer period of time. If you have a drip irrigation system, use it! It uses less water than a sprinkler, and it gives the plants a constant flow of water.

    You should also consider growing your plants in pots or trays instead of directly in the ground. This way you can move them around if they get too hot or cold. How do you garden in the winter? If you live in a place where winters are cold, you may want to consider growing plants indoors. Cover the pots with plastic or with straw. Straw is a great insulator, and it doesn’t need to be kept warm.

    How do you protect plants from heatwave?

    Heatwave is a hot, dry and sunny period which usually lasts for a few days. Heatwave can cause a lot of damage to plants. Plants are sensitive to high temperatures. 

    The best way to protect your plants from heatwave is to use a sprinkler system, which can provide plants with regular water. You should also take steps to prevent the soil from becoming too dry. If the soil is too dry, it will not be able to hold any more moisture. This could make the plants very thirsty and weak. It could also lead to problems like fungal diseases. You could use a watering can or hose to wet the soil around your plants, but do not leave them standing in water for long periods of time. When using a sprinkler system, you should keep the nozzle at a height that gives your plants enough water. The nozzle should be about 3 feet above the ground. You should turn on the sprinkler system when the temperature outside rises above 25°C. The water flow rate should be set to about 50-100 drops per minute. This will give your plants enough water to survive. You should also turn off the system if the temperature falls below 20°C.

    Final Thoughts

    All the above listed are vegetables that grow in hot weather and give you plenty of options to choose from when gardening in the summer months.

    Remember to keep your vegetables well-watered because the summer sun dries out the soil quickly. Ensure that you enrich your soil with organic compost manure that helps the plants get the proper nutrients. You can also mulch to protect your soil from direct sunlight.

    Enjoy summer gardening, won’t you?

  • How Long Does It Take To Grow Artichoke

    How Long Does It Take To Grow Artichoke

    How long does it really take to grow artichoke? A good understanding of the answer to this question gives you insight into the steps to take when growing artichokes. Also, the key consideration to note when growing this plant is also brought to the fore.

    Adorned with long leaves with very elegant attractive blooms, artichokes are a great addition to your vegetable garden. The process of growing artichokes is not difficult. With proper planting and timing, watering and pruning, your artichokes harvest is bound to be bountiful.

    This is a complete guide on how long it takes to grow artichokes and the key considerations to have when growing this plant. Although thistles are not always a great addition to a garden, the reason why artichokes are will be is explained here.

    Before we delve into how long does it really take to grow artichoke, we will consider what the artichoke plant is. Now let us get into it.

    About Artichoke Plant

    Before you can get into artichokes growing and the process involved in growing artichokes, you must have a base knowledge of artichokes. Artichoke is a variety of thistles that are usually accepted in the garden.

    Artichokes are mostly edible, but the portion of the plant usually eaten is the immature flower bud. This is found at the center of the plant, formed before the artichokes blooms. The artichoke plant although not an indigenous American plant, can grow in virtually every state in the United States. It usually grows in the range Zones 3-11.

    About Artichoke Plant

    Growing Duration For Artichokes:  How Long Does It Take To Grow Artichoke

    Artichokes can generally begin to produce from about 90 days after transplant. The exact time frame is however dependent on the variety. The artichokes are however required to be started about 8 to 12 weeks before they are transplanted.

    The overall artichokes growing time considering the pre-transplant and after-transplant is therefore about 180 days.

    Growing Artichoke From Seed: How Long Does It Take To Grow Artichoke

    While artichokes may be grown and transplanted, they may also be grown from seed. Starting artichokes from seed is however more difficult and requires more attention. If you are however residing in an area where the artichokes can’t overwinter, you can grow them all year.

    The seeds usually stay indoors between 8 to 12 weeks. If you do not aid artichokes, they may not blossom until the second year.

    Artichoke seed may be planted anytime between January and mid-March. If you are however interested in planting in warmer climates, the timing may differ. The seedlings must be ready for planting immediately after the last frost date. This is usually before spring temperatures rise too high.

    Transplant should be done when the plants are about 8 to 10 inches tall. At this point in time, the risk of frost must have passed. At this stage, the soil temperature has reached 60 Fahrenheit or higher.

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    How To Grow Artichokes: Germination Of Artichokes

    Artichokes growing are usually very slow starters after they are planted. Plant the seeds two to three seeds in each 3 to 4-inch pot.

    The time it takes for artichoke to sprout is dependent on a few factors. These include the quality of light the plant receives, the nature of the soil, and the general temperature. At the starting stage, the temperature should be around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

    At this temperature, it will take about two to three weeks for the seeds to germinate. After germination, water the young plant with a fertilizer solution weekly.

    Artichokes usually require a lot of available resources to grow and soil nutrients. So, after about a month after germination, remove the small seedlings leaving only one in a pot. This will allow for the one left to grow optimally, utilizing the available nutrients.

    When your indoor-grown seedlings have grown to about eight to ten inches, they are ready to be transplanted. Hardened them off and plant them outdoors. Plant them about 1.5 and 2 feet apart.

    Harvesting And Storage Of Artichokes

    Artichokes are usually ready to be harvested when you notice that the edible flower buds are tightly closed and slightly squeak when squeezed. Allowing the plant to open before harvesting will make them too hard to open and difficult to eat.

    It usually will take you no less than 110 to 150 days for the plant to reach maturity when planted from seed. transplanting takes no less than 100 days. Most artichokes however will not flower until about the second year after planting.

    Cut the plant back to about 1-2 inches from the ground. This is once the plant has matured and is ready for harvest. This allows for new sprouting to take place for the second year. New plants will begin to form at the base of the plant.

    If you desire to get the best possible flavor, ensure you pick in the early hours of the morning, rinse thoroughly and eat fresh.

    For proper storage, artichokes can be stored in the produce drawer of your refrigerator for up to about two weeks after harvesting.

    Varieties Of Artichoke

    Artichokes usually come in different varieties. Some of these are:

      • Green Globe: grown commercial variety. For this variety to adapt well, the growing condition must be ideal.

      • Big Heart: this is a thornless variety that has the ability to withstand some heat. It can survive some harsh weather conditions.

      • Imperial Star: this variety is adaptable to a wide variety of conditions. They can easily survive when grown from seeds. Grown annually.

      • Purple of Romagna: favored by chefs is this variety which is an Italian heirloom.

      • Violetto: this variety is notorious for its production of dozens of small side shoots.

    Varieties Of Artichoke

    FAQ’s

    How long does it take for artichokes to grow from seed?

    Artichokes grow slowly, taking about three months from planting the seed until they are ready to harvest. In fact, they can take up to two years to reach maturity. The first year is the most critical, and you should be able to see signs of growth in late spring or early summer. It’s then that you’ll start to see the first leaves emerge. As the plant gets older, it will produce more leaves and flowers.

    After the first year, the plant begins to produce buds that eventually turn into artichokes. Each bud is a flower-producing structure, but it takes time for these buds to mature into artichokes. You may not see any artichoke buds for another year or two, so don’t be discouraged if your first year is disappointing.

    Is it difficult to grow artichokes from seed?

    Artichoke is a perennial plant that can be grown from seed. It grows well in sandy soil and does not require much water or fertilizer. You can start your seeds indoors in a pot or directly in the garden. If you choose to sow them in the garden, it is recommended that you choose a sunny spot with good air circulation.

    They are hardy in Zones 6-9 (Zone 5 is a bit marginal) and will survive in colder climates. You will need to start your seeds indoors in mid-summer, or plant them outside when the soil has warmed up a bit. You can use the same method as for starting sweet potatoes, using a peat pot with a perforated lid and a clear plastic bag inside to keep out pests and rain. Be sure to keep the soil moist until you see sprouts. When the sprouts are about 2″ tall, you can transplant the plants into a garden bed, or you can plant directly in the garden. Keep the plants well watered and fertilized, and they will be fine.

    How long do artichokes take to bloom?

    It can take as long as 120 days for artichokes to produce flowers. It is a slow process, but when they do bloom they can look quite beautiful.

    When do I plant artichokes?

    The best time to plant is late fall or early winter. Fall is the optimal time because it’s cool enough to keep the plants from getting too warm but not too cold. Winter is also ideal because you’ll have less competition from weeds. In a garden with lots of rain, you may want to wait until spring, when the ground is warm enough to help plants grow more quickly.

    Conclusion: How Long Does It Take To Grow Artichoke

    This guide gives direction on the key things you must note if you are interested in growing Artichokes.

    Plant good variety as this will affect the outcome of the plant. As such, this article also includes a brief review of some varieties. You have no worries about how to grow artichokes if you understand the answer to this question: How long does it take to grow artichokes.

  • What Is The Difference Between Broccoli and Broccolini

    What Is The Difference Between Broccoli and Broccolini

    What is the difference between broccoli and broccolini? You’ve probably heard of these two terms, but what exactly are they?

    What are the differences between broccolini and broccoli? Have you tasted either or both of them?  Very few people can tell the differences between these two vegetables.

    Broccolini is a hybrid of broccoli and Gai Lan, more commonly known as Chinese broccoli. Before it was named broccolini, it was first called broccoli Gai Lan.

    Broccolini was first developed by Japanese scientists, but most of it is grown and sold in the United States in California and New Mexico. This vegetable is available all year round and is many people’s favorite.

    What Is Broccoli?

    differences between broccolini and broccoli

    Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable like Brussel sprouts, cabbage, or kale. It is rich in various nutrients like Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Potassium, Fiber, and Iron. Broccoli is eaten raw or cooked and has a higher protein content than other vegetables.

    Raw broccoli has a profile of about 90% water, 3% protein, and 7% carbs. This green vegetable is rich in fiber, making it a vital part of a healthy diet as fibers help improve human gut health.

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    What Is Broccolini?

    Broccolini is a hybrid version of the standard broccoli and Chinese broccoli. This vegetable was introduced to the United States in 1998 and has become a frequently used ingredient. It has the most extended terms and smaller Florence compared to the regular broccoli.

    Broccolini tastes a little sweeter and peppery and could be compared to asparagus. It is high in vitamins A, D, fiber, protein, magnesium, and calcium.

    Similarities Between Broccoli And Broccolini

    • They are both cruciferous vegetables. Broccolini is a hybrid version of the original broccoli and Chinese.
    • These vegetables are rich in proteins and fibers and have a low carb profile.
    • Both vegetables are similar in appearance.
    • Broccoli and broccolini are rich in protein content

    What Is The Difference Between Broccoli And Broccolini

    The main difference between broccoli and broccolini is their origin. Broccoli is a hybrid version of broccoli smaller and more delicate in flavor. Though they both look the same in appearance, they taste differently. Broccolini is a little sweeter and shares its test with asparagus.

    Here are more differences between broccoli and broccolini:

    Classification

    Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable, while broccoli is a hybrid version of broccoli.

    Invention

    Broccoli dates back to more than 2,000 years ago, while the broccolini is much newer, created in 1993.

    Flavor and culinary use

    Both broccoli and broccolini are excellent options in a variety of dishes are there both suitable for different dishes.

    The traditional broccoli is the king of sauteing and steaming because its thick stalks hold up well in the cooking process. Broccoli has an adaptable flavor that pairs well with nutty cheese like parmesan and citrus flavors.

    Broccolini exiles in stir fry, making it an ideal option in Asian cuisine. Due to its Chinese broccoli roots are often found in Vietnamese Chinese and Thai cuisines and work best when cooked.

    Broccolini has a slightly sweet and savory taste than ordinary broccoli that has a slight bitterness.

    Nutritional value

    Both vegetables have Stella’s nutritional profiles. Broccoli is a vegetable rich in nutrients like vitamin c, potassium, iron, and fiber, while broccolini is rich in vitamins a d magnesium, calcium, and fiber.

    Appearance and texture

    Broccoli has thick stalks, large florets, and a thick texture. It also has a bright green color, which is good quality.

    Broccolini has a similar look but longer and thinner stalks and smaller florets. They are also more tender and delicate than traditional broccoli.

    Some Familiar Recipes That Use Broccoli And Broccolini

    broccolini what is it

    Broccoli frittata

    Who doesn’t love a yummy frittata? From a light consistency to a variety of meats and cheeses that you can pack into it, this recipe is a favorite to many.  The best part is that it’s not only for breakfast, but you can eat it any time. All thanks to broccoli frittata; your egg-based dish just got healthier.

    Sautee your broccoli and garlic in a pan for a few minutes.  Pour your beaten eggs over the top, not forgetting to sprinkle some fresh gruyere and bake it perfection at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Parmesan and garlic broccoli

    Broccoli dressed up in cheese and garlic – yum! It’s too delicious for life!  This recipe is too easy to make. Simply place your broccoli on a pan and cover it with oil to get it ready and primed.

    Chop up your garlic cloves and mix with the broccoli pieces, stirring a few times to ensure everything mixes ideally. Then place the pan in the oven and allow it to roast to give you a tender plate of deliciousness. Add your Parmesan, sprinkling it to your liking.  You can add a squeeze of lemon to bring out the flavors.

    Grilled steak with potatoes, cheese, and broccolini

    Brocollini matched with potato slices on a hot grill alongside the grilled steak are heavenly.  This easy sumptuous meal grills up in no time.  Served with a zesty blue cheese sauce, they melt in your mouth with their goodness.

    Lemon broccolini and sausage pasta

    You will think you are Italian by the time you are done with this meal.  The pasta is flavorful and a little spicy, and a little sweet. You can taste the great flavor of the broccolini, the lemon, and the great pan juices you get to pour over pasta.  What are you waiting for?

    Conclusion

    The main difference between broccoli and broccolini is the originality. It is simply one is an original cruciferous vegetable while the other is a hybrid version. It is true these two greens share distinct flavor profiles because they have a history together. Though they look and taste different, they both have low carb and are rich in vitamins and fiber, making them an ideal addition to your daily diet if you are trying to burn calories.

    So next time sone walks up to you questioning, broccolini, what is or is broccoli the same as broccolini?  You are in a more knowledgeable position to answer them.

    Read more about A list Of Vegetables That Grow In Hot Weather.

  • When Do You Harvest Spinach?

    When Do You Harvest Spinach?

    When do you harvest spinach now that you have tended to your plants and allowed them to grow into healthy leaves?

    Spinach is a cool weather plant that is related to swiss chard. It is best grown during the cool season.  It is rare to find it growing during the heat of the summer.  Spinach is a popular crop to plant in the early spring or late summer since it withstands cold and tolerates full sun to partial shade.

    What is so good about spinach plants is that you can harvest them as microgreen baby leaves or mature leaves. All of these are tasty when eaten raw or cooked. Each growth stage for the spinach has its benefit to the gardeners.

    To enjoy spinach’s different flavors and textures, you can easily plant spinach in intervals. Use the outer leaves like baby spinach or mature spinach. To learn when to harvest spinach, here is a detailed guide.

    When Do You Harvest Spinach?

    You can harvest spinach throughout the growing season, from early spring to fall harvest. This cool-season crop is the best grown in the spring and again in the early fall when the soil temperature is between 45 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

    You can harvest spinach leaves as a baby or mature leaves. Baby leaves from young plants are excellent if you want a more tender texture and sweeter flavor. The mature leaves are naturally chewy with a similar taste to swiss chard. If you leave your spinach to go to seeding, you will not consume the leaves as they will have a bitter taste and a tough texture.

    When is spinach ready to harvest?  The best size to harvest baby spinach is when the plant is at least 6 inches tall, and the leaves are at least 2 to 3 inches long. Harvest mature leaves when they are about 3 to 6 inches long. A few leaves might even be larger, but they will be good to eat as long as the plant has not set seed.

    Your spinach plants can easily bolt once the outside temperature reaches 25 degrees Fahrenheit. You will notice a stem growing up in the middle of the foliage as the plant prepares to set seeds. This is the time to harvest the entire plant because the formation of spinach seeds takes away the energy required for healthy leaf production. If you do not harvest, the entire older leaves will become bitter.

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    How To Harvest Spinach

    Spinach harvesting is an easy process.  However, there are different methods to harvest depending on the maturity of a plant. You can harvest your spinach by cutting the leaf from the spinach plant. This way, you are harvesting only what you need at the time of use.

    This harvesting method will encourage new growth from the entire plant. Spinach is a fast-growing plant that tolerates multiple harvests.

    When harvesting the leaves, whether baby or mature, take only the outer larger leaves and no more than 1/4 of the whole plant. Harvesting only a small amount will ensure the spinach continues to grow. Use a sharp kitchen knife or utility scissors and leave at least 1/2 inch of stem on the plant to keep the leaf node intact and encourage thicker growth. If your stems are tender, you can easily pinch your leaves from the plant when harvesting.

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    Another harvesting method is called clear-cutting by the bunch. This is excellent when you harvest lots of leaves at once to dry or freeze them for later use. To harvest using this method, use a sharp knife and gather up all the spinach leaves of one plant into a bunch.  Cut the stems at least 1/2 inch above the crown. The crown is just above the soil surface where all the stems meet. Within 10 to 14 days, you can get a second harvest following this method.

    The last method to harvest the spinach plants is removing the entire root system. This is an excellent method if you’re ready to remove the whole crop at the end of the season or you don’t want the spinach to regrow. Use a sharp knife and cut below the crown so that the whole plant comes up from the soil. The remaining roots will decompose, adding nutrients to your soil.

    Storing Fresh Spinach

    After harvesting your fresh spinach leaves, you now need to store them in the best way possible.  The two different ways to keep your spinach are dry cold storage and freezer storage.  For these two methods, you will need to remove any slimy, wilted, or off-colored leaves from the batch before you store them. These leaves will be the potential cause of the rest going bad.

    Before storing your spinach, clean them by rinsing them with cold water and then use a salad spinner to get rid of the excess water. Place the leaves on a paper towel and pat them dry.

    For dry cold storage, wrap your spinach in a plastic bag. Remove any excess air before placing it in the refrigerator. This is the most popular storage method because it is easy and keeps your spinach fresh for at least 10 days.

    Storing Fresh Spinach

    When storing your spinach in the fridge, the last thing you want is to leave the leaves wet. Wet spinach quickly turns slimy, thus rotting.

    When storing your spinach, you could also wait to wash them when you’re ready to use them to eliminate the potential for moisture damage. Alternatively, you can put them in a plastic container to increase the storage life from 12 to 14 days.

    You can do a quick rinse to remove all the dirt and insects for freezer storage. You will not need to dry them because they will need to be blanched in boiling water or steam for 2 minutes. After blanching, place them in ice water for another 2 minutes to stop the cooking process. Once they have cooled, use a salad spinner to remove excess water and dry them with a towel. The frozen spinach will last in the freezer for up to one year.

    FAQs

    How do you know when spinach is ready to harvest?

    There’s a lot of confusion about this. But the answer isn’t very complicated, and once you know how to tell when spinach is ready, you’ll have a much easier time getting your leaves and eating them! I’m going to show you a few ways to tell when spinach is ready, but I’d like to make one thing clear up front: there’s no right or wrong way to harvest spinach.

    You can either wait until it’s completely dry and wilted, or you can pick it just before it starts to get too wet. You can use the same technique to harvest arugula, kale, collards, chard, and other greens as well. The basic technique is pretty simple: when you think your spinach has reached its peak, pull the whole plant up by the stems, and shake off the soil from the leaves. You should see that the leaves are wilted, and that there are some brown spots on the leaves. It’s okay if there’s still a bit of moisture on the leaves—they’ll dry out a little as they sit, and then you can water them again later.

    You should harvest when the leaves are full of water and have a nice fresh taste. If the plants start to wilt after harvesting, then you’ve waited too long.

    How many times can you harvest a spinach plant?

    From my experience, I would say the limit is two. First time you harvest, you’ll want to cut it back severely. Then second time you harvest, you want to be cutting off more of the top and less of the bottom. By that time, you’ll have a large amount of seed heads on your plant. Once the seed heads start turning brown, the plant is done.

    How do you harvest spinach without killing the plant?

    You don’t have to kill it. If you wait until it’s over a foot tall, you can just pluck it off the vine. You can also put it in a bucket of water with a small bit of salt. It will grow roots if the leaves are removed. Then you can transplant it into a pot and keep it alive. But, you may want to consider how much you want to eat.

    What does bolting spinach look like?

    It’s easy to tell when a plant is bolting. The first sign of this is the emergence of the first flower buds or seed heads on the plant. The next step is that the plant begins to grow and become bushy, but it still stays relatively small in size.

    Is spinach an annual or perennial?

    Spinach is a perennial vegetable. Spinach belongs to the Brassica family of vegetables, and is considered to be a member of the mustard family.

    Conclusion

    The information on when to harvest spinach, how to harvest, and how to store your spinach leaves is clearly explained in this article. We hope everyone gets to grow their spinach and enjoy sharing it with their loved ones from when they are baby spinach to the mature days.

  • A Guide For Growing Broccolini From Seed

    A Guide For Growing Broccolini From Seed

    In this article, we will look at growing broccolini from seed and how to care for this plant so that it gives you a decent harvest.

    Broccolini is an excellent vegetable that grows easily in gardens across the United States. It is a trademarked hybrid between the standard American broccoli and Chinese broccoli called gailan.

    Instead of growing one large head like the standard broccoli, it bears many small tender side shoots that have a subtly sweet flavor with peppery hints.

    Some people grow broccolini for its texture and taste, while others love it because it is temperature sensitive and an expensive fad crop.

    Most gardeners take up growing broccolini from seed as a hobby, and there’s a plant that provides the right nutrition to their families. Growing broccoli from seed is easy, and this is all you need to know.

    Growing Broccolini From Seed

    Start your broccolini seeds indoors or on a covered porch in containers in the late summer. Transplant your seedlings outdoors in the early fall for a late autumn harvest.

    Transplant your seedlings when they have developed at least 6 to 8 true leaves. Before transplanting, amend your soil with compost manure at least 1/2 an inch deeper into the soil than they were growing in the pots. Space out your plants about a foot apart in rows that are 2 feet apart.

    You can also directly sow your seeds in the garden soil that is already amended with compost. Sow them directly in rows of 12 to 14 inches apart. Place the broccolini seed in a 1/4 inch deep hole and lightly cover with soil.

    Once the seedlings germinate, thin them to at least 5 to 6 inches apart.

    Broccolini is still a fairly new vegetable with several suggested planting seasons. Some gardeners suggest that you plant as soon as the last frost date passes in the spring, while others say that broccolini growing is best done in the early fall.

    It is true broccolini can be grown as a fall or summer crop, but you may want to experiment and see what works best in your area.

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    Transplanting Broccolini

    After 4 to 6 weeks of germination, your broccoli seedlings will have developed 6 to 8 leaves. It is time to transfer them to your outdoor garden.

    Before transplanting, bring them outdoors for a few hours every week for hardening off. This will help your seedlings adjust to the outdoor temperatures before transplanting.

    Remove every seedling from the tray gently without disturbing their root system. Place your seedling in the middle of the hole, gently covering them with soil. Work gently with your seedlings to eliminate the transplanting shock that kills most young plants.

    Transplanting Broccolini

    How To Care For Broccolini

      • Soil. Broccolini prefers moderately low acidity with a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0. the soil must be well-draining and enriched with compost manure, organic fertilizers, or commercial fertilizers. Add a couple of inches of compost or well-rotted manure to your soil before planting to enhance it with the right nutrients. Add a handful of wood ashes around each broccolini seedlings if your soil is too acidic.

      • Mulching. To preserve moisture in your soil, spread grass clippings or organic mulch under each seedling after transplanting. This keeps your soil well moisturized and discourages weeds from growing. Weeds usually compete with the plant in receiving the nutrients from the soil and, in some cases, could weaken your plants.

      • Watering. Provide your broccolini with at least 1 to 2 inches of water each week. Provide enough water to your broccolini plants, especially during flowering, to enable an excellent crop to form.

      • Fertilizing. Amend your soils with compost manure or organic fertilizer. You can also spray your plants with compost tea or diluted fish emulsion every fortnight to provide an extra nitrogen boost.

    Required Items To Grow Broccolini From Seed

    Certain items are essential if you wish to grow a decent crop of broccolini; they include

      • Soil testing kit
      • A shovel
      • Peat moss
      • Limestone
      • Sulfur
      • Liquid fertilizer 20 20 20
      • Fertilizer 8:16:16
      • Broccolini seeds or seedlings.

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    Common Broccolini Pests And Diseases

    Just like ordinary broccoli, this plant faces the same problems.  To minimize pests and disease issues, it is advisable not to plant broccolini where you had previously planted cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, kale, or any of their relatives in the last 4 years.

    Some of the common broccolini problems you might face

    • Aphid or Whitefly Infestation. If you notice your broccoli leaves curling or turning yellow you may have a whitefly or aphid infestation. Look on the undersides of leaves for soft tiny bodied green pink or brown insects. You can handpick aphids and throw them away or kill them using organic insecticidal soap. You can also bring in ladybugs as they eat aphids. Insecticidal soap is the best remedy to eliminate whiteflies.

    • Flea Beetles. Flea beetles cause pinholes in your leaves by chewing the leaves and the stem. You can use pyrethrum spray to control these pests as it is organic but toxic to these pests. Though it protects your plants from flea beetles infestation it is also toxic to bees. Therefore it is advisable to spray it in the evening when pollinators are not active.

    • Cabbage Worms. Large ragged holes in broccoli leaves may be caused by cabbage worms or the green striped caterpillars. Handpick them and throw them away or spray them with a pesticide; you may also notice these holes caused by slugs. If you have a slug infestation in your broccolini plant, set water mixed with yeast or beer in your garden that will attract the slugs. They will stop eating your plants and fall into the water and die.

    • Downy Mildew. If you notice yellowish spots on leaves, this indicates that your plants are suffering from downy mildew. You might also notice that plants are spiked with black dots on leaves and stem reddish leaves that are the first signs of a blackleg problem.  Try spraying an organic fungicide like copper to treat this disease immediately you notice. If the plants are too infected, remove and destroy them and do not put them in the compost heap.

    Common Broccolini Pests And Diseases

     

    FAQs

    How long does it take to grow broccolini?

    It takes about 6-8 weeks from seed to harvest for broccoli.

    However, if you’re looking for a headier flavor, you may want to wait until the plants are a little bigger before harvesting. Broccoli has a longer growing season than most vegetables. This is because it needs lots of light and heat. But once it starts producing, it will keep producing until the first hard frost. So if you plant your broccoli in the fall, you can expect to have some on your dinner table throughout the winter.

    Is it easy to grow broccolini?

    It can be hard to grow. It’s a cool-season vegetable that grows well in the spring and fall. There are several varieties of broccolini that you can choose from. Broccolini is a member of the mustard family (Brassicaceae) and it grows well in areas with cold winters and warm summers. It needs well-drained soil that has some compost or organic matter added to it.

    If your soil is too heavy or clayey, it will likely not grow well. The first step in growing broccolini is to sow seeds. The seeds can be direct sown in the garden in the spring or fall, or they can be started indoors in trays or seedling flats in the spring and transplanted outdoors in the fall.  Broccolini seeds are often slow to germinate, so if you’re not sure whether yours have sprouted, wait until the following week. You’ll know when they’ve germinated when you see a small green shoot.

    Can you grow broccolini in containers?

    Yes, you can plant in containers. But you’ll need to give it some TLC to get it to grow. It will also need a little more fertilizer than most plants. Here are a couple of suggestions:

    You can try planting a few small plants in a large pot with good drainage. Then water them thoroughly. As they grow, you can divide them or transplant them to larger pots. Another option is to use a hanging basket or window box. You can plant the seeds directly into the soil and water thoroughly. Another method is to grow broccolini in a small container and then transplant it to the ground. You can grow it from seedlings that you’ve started indoors. Just be sure to start seeds in a cool place such as a refrigerator. And make sure the seeds have been kept moist.

    How much broccolini do you get from one plant?

    Plants can be 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide and you can harvest about 8-10 stalks from each plant.

    What can you plant with broccolini?

    You can plant onions, celery and potatoes.
    Broccoli is a member of the cruciferous family, which includes cabbage, cauliflower and kale. Broccolini is a hybrid between broccoli and Chinese kale and is grown as a biennial, meaning it has to be replanted the following year for a new crop of plants to grow. Broccolini is a tender vegetable, and it grows well in full sun in a well-drained soil.

     

    Conclusion

    Growing broccolini from seed can be challenging for a new gardener since not many gardeners are growing them yet. However, most gardeners are beginning to take notice of the nutritional benefits of broccolini and gaining more interest in growing them.

    We hope that as you gain interest in this plant, you will grow it from seed successfully.

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  • How Does The Early Girl Tomato Taste

    How Does The Early Girl Tomato Taste

    How does the early girl tomato taste? Have you grown this variety of tomatoes before? Do you know what type it is and where it does well?

    The early girl tomato is a medium-sized standard globe-type tomato popular for its short time to grow. It is a cold-tolerant short-season red hybrid tomato that is the first to ripen in a vegetable garden.

    The early girl tomato is an all-time sweet favorite that grows on the long indeterminate vines.

    All About The Early Girl Tomato

    This tomato was bred in France and acquired by the US agricultural seed company in the 1970s. The Peto Seed board of directors, Joe Howland, had been searching for a short-season tomato he could grow in the unpredictable climate of Reno Nevada. The early girl tomato seed, as named by Howland, became popular in the 70s as one of the shortest season growing tomatoes.

    The early girl tomatoes are red and round  F1 hybrid tomatoes reaching about 4 to 6 ounces each. It is a normal-looking tomato making them one of the most popular homegrown upgrades for picky eaters. The early girl is a favorite slice of tomato and one of the many great tomato varieties for use on sandwiches.

    What Does The Early Girl Tomato Taste Like?

    The early girl tomatoes have a mild old-fashioned tomato taste with a nice balance of acidity and sweetness. The early girl tomato flavor set this tomato apart due to its ability to produce tasty fruit with a homegrown tomato flavor within a short period of time.

    This type is not intensely flavored like some of the well-known heirloom tomatoes or open-pollinated hybrids. It has a hint of crisp tang that accompanies the sweetness. The shorter time on the vine helps them develop the depth of their flavor.

    This tomato ripens within 2 months of planting the seedling outdoors. It can’t tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit but can also grow in hot and dry areas. This variety is highly sought-after in the desert zones and inland climates with hot sunny days and cold nights.

    The early girl tomatoes taste great after a long winter with no homegrown tomatoes, even though they are a bit more bland than the latest season varieties. This variety is built on a fresh tomato sandwich chopped up into fresh salsa, cubed up into a salad, or enjoyed into a summer pizza.

    How To Grow The Early Girl Tomatoes

    Growing the bush early girl tomato plants is very similar to growing other indeterminate tomatoes with long vines. These tomatoes can be grown at home from seed or purchased as potted seedling plants from a nursery.

    If growing from seed, start your seeds indoors at least 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Sow your seeds indoors starting from February to April, depending on your area’s climate. If you want to buy potted seedlings, they are commonly sold around March to  June, depending on your local climate.

    How To Grow The Early Girl Tomatoes

    Tomato seedlings are sensitive to cold and should not be put outdoors until the threat of frost has passed. The early girl tomato plant is not as hardy as other cultivars and can be easily damaged by temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

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    Planting

    Plant your seedlings outdoors in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil when the last frost date has passed. Space them at least two feet apart to allow enough growing space. These plants thrive in raised garden beds and large containers. You will need to tie the main stem to a vertical stick and surround the plant with a heavy-duty tomato cage.

    Plant your early girl in a sunny spot where the leaves get direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours daily. Ensure that you water them regularly drip irrigation system is excellent for watering if available.

    This variety of tomato is indeterminate, meaning the vines keep growing longer and longer throughout the season. These vines require stable support with a tall structure like a cage of vertical plants or even a metal garden arch.

    The tomatoes themselves are the size of a golf ball which means they are not too heavy. But the vines have branches that thrive, needing support to keep the fruits of the ground as the plant grows larger.

    You will need to provide your early girl tomato plants with additional nutrients if growing in containers or nutrient deficient soil. You can use a top dressing fertilizer or homemade compost for an extra nutrient boost.

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    Is Early Girl Tomato An Heirloom Tomato

    Early girl tomatoes are modern hybrid tomatoes, not heirloom tomatoes. This tomato variety is a recent introduction from France in the 70s. This variety grows from an F1 hybrid seed and is not open-pollinated.

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    Harvesting Time For Early Girl Tomatoes

    Early tomatoes fruits ripen between 52 to 60 days after transplanting. More continue growing throughout the year as long as the weather stays above 40 degrees, and you keep the pests away.

    Common Uses For Early Girl Tomatoes

    • Eating Raw.  This fruit is safe to eat raw after giving them a good rinse with clean water. Though smaller than most tomato varieties they can cover a sandwich in one slice.  They are great for making sandwiches. They are also excellent for salads and sweet salsa.
    • Cooking. These tomatoes are great for cooking adding a little sweetness to tomato sauces and other cooked or baked meals.
    • Canning Freezing or Drying. The early girl tomato is one of the best for preserving through canning, drying, or freezing.
    Common Uses For Early Girl Tomatoes

    FAQs

    Are Early Girl tomatoes tasty?

    I have a large patch of Early Girl tomatoes planted. I’ve had them in my garden for almost two years now, and they’re still doing very well. They’re the only tomatoes I’ve grown that have done well, and the only reason I keep trying to grow them is because they’re delicious.

    What type of tomato is the Early Girl?

    The first thing to know is that the early girl tomatoes are a hybrid of the early boy tomato and the big boy tomato. If the fruit is firm and holds its shape well, it’s probably a big boy tomato. If it feels soft, it’s an early girl. You can also check for signs of ripening by looking for tiny blisters on the skin. If you see them, they’re ready to eat. But if you don’t, wait a few more days. It’s normal to get a few small blisters on early tomatoes. They will disappear as the fruit ripens. You can also tell by the color.

    It’s got a much longer shelf life than your regular tomato and can be stored for up to a year (or more). They also have some other attributes like a higher yield and disease resistance. There are many different varieties of this tomato line but most of them are sweet. You can usually find them at big box stores and garden centers in early spring.

    Are Early Girl tomatoes sweet?

    The “Early Girl” is a hybrid tomato that is bred for productivity. Hybrid tomatoes usually have more sugar than other tomatoes. You may find that these tomatoes are very sweet.

    Are Early Girl tomatoes good salsa?

    As for using them for salsa, I’d say go for it – you’ll get a really nice flavor. I’ve used some in my tomato sauce, but it’s just an experiment – I like to add them to the mix right away. That said, I do think they have a different flavor than late Girls and I think the flavors complement each other nicely. I’d say use them for salsa now, but maybe not as much as you’d use late Girls for salsa.

    What do you do with Early Girl tomatoes?

    You can also roast them.

    I make a big batch and then freeze it in freezer bags. When I want a quick meal I just thaw a bag and put it on top of some rice or pasta. I also like to make tomato juice from them. I just chop them up, add some water, and then puree them with a blender. I strain the pulp through cheesecloth and then pour it into a glass jar and keep it in the fridge. This is great for when I want to make a quick tomato soup or even a Bloody Mary. Re: What can I do with my early girl tomatoes?

     

    Final Thoughts

    This sweet, old-fashioned early girl tomato tastes heavenly, and many gardeners have learned the secret. It is a great choice to add to your garden as it will give you good fruit for nearly a month before your other tomato plants mature. The shorter waiting period is a big plus for every gardener who is less patient.