Free Tomato Babies to Good Homes

Friends, family and past readers of this blog will remember a certain tomato mania that strikes me every spring. There is something so rewarding about growing my own food, even if it just a small amount.  This is my third year growing tomatoes two blocks from the beach, and my quest to discover which varietals grow best in the various micro climates of Monterey County continues.

Last year I started my seeds on March 15.  Though I shuttled my seeds flats indoors every evening and out again every morning, there was very little danger of frost hurting the tender plants.   This year's early spring inspired me to start my plants earlier (February 19), and as a consequence these lovelies are enjoying today's Saturday sun:

even though I did considerably more shuttling.

I always feel foolish when I go to the store and find much bigger plants at ridiculously low prices, but the charm in starting my own lies in the varieties that I don't find in stores.  This years varieties include: Amish Paste, Reigart, Brandy Wine, Riesentraube, Stupice and Annelise.  Except.....I may have gone overboard.  My current count is 552.  So, who will join me in the joy of growing tomatos from home?  Free tomato babies to good homes!