Enjoy Vibrant Colors & Bolder Tomato Flavors This Year, Regardless of Varieties
This year, many tomato varieties have exhibited muted colors and less bold flavors than in previous years. Gardeners across the country are noticing this change and wondering what could be causing it.
The weather can play a large role in how tomatoes look and taste. In Minnesota, cool wet weather through late June followed by hot summer months may have had an effect on the tomatoes grown there. Last year's drought may also have contributed to bolder colors, but lower yields.
Different varieties of tomatoes can also affect how they look and taste. For example, Azoychka and Gold Medal are usually rosy-colored at the blossom end, but were far less colorful this year. Similarly, Isis Candy and Chocolate Cherry seemed tastier last year than this year.
Finally, some gardeners have noticed changes over multiple seasons with their usual varieties. Pink Berkley Tie Dye has become smaller and less definitively striped, with flavor not as good as before. This suggests that seed source may also be a factor in tomato color and flavor.
Overall, whether due to weather, variety or seed source, many tomato growers are experiencing different results from their plants this year. While some of these changes may be temporary, others may require further investigation to understand why they're happening.Gardeners can take steps to ensure their tomatoes are as flavorful and colorful as possible. Planting in a sunny spot with well-drained soil is essential for good tomato growth. Adding organic matter like compost or manure will also help the plants get the nutrients they need.
Watering regularly, especially during dry spells, is important too. Mulching around plants helps keep moisture in and weeds out of garden beds. Finally, pruning off any diseased leaves or stems can help prevent disease from spreading throughout the plant's foliage and fruit.
By taking these simple steps, gardeners should be able to enjoy more vibrant colors and bolder flavors from their tomatoes this year - even if some varieties have been muted compared to previous years!
What was the original post on the Benevento thread?
The original post was an image of a pint of home-canned Benevento, with jars containing Copia and Axoychka.
What variety did the poster trade seeds for?
The poster traded seeds with Bill Minkey for a variety he called "Chet's Italian Black", which was likely Tigerella or one similar.
Has anyone else noticed reduced or enhanced color in their tomatoes this year?
Yes, many people have noticed reduced or enhanced color in their tomatoes this year. Weather conditions such as heat and drought can have an effect on tomato colors. Some varieties, such as Rainbow Jazz Heart, Marzano Fire, Maglia Rosa, and Green Tiger, have exhibited barely visible stripes or pale gold blush as ripening advanced. Conversely, Sherkhan looks even more bold than Tatiana's pictures suggest, and Paquebot's "Martin's Super Roma" looks as good as ever.
Have any other varieties changed over the years?
Yes, some varieties have changed over the years. For example, Pink Berkley Tie Dye has become smaller and less definitively striped with less flavor. It is recommended to order new seeds from a different source to compare. Other varieties, such as Black Krim and Cherokee Purple, have remained consistent over the years.