The Heirloom Project is Growing

Behold, the humble tomato.

Crushed, pureed, peeled, fried, diced or sliced, tomatoes offer so much to our culinary experience. (And next time you sip that Bloody Mary or michelada, raise your glass to the pomodoro that made it possible.)

But here's one thing I've never understood about tomatoes: the enthusiasm over growing 'em. Seriously, ask an amateur backyard gardener about their tomatoes — by the time they're done yammering, you'll want to plug your ears with grape tomatoes.

Maybe that's because I'm just jealous. The sad reality is that I'm a terrible gardener. See that photo? No, not the vivid tomatoes. The other one, the one that looks all cold and wither-y and dead. One was supposed to be a pot filled with herbs. The other was...I don't even know.

But it looks like the Heirloom Project is about to change all that for me. It's a clever way to bring that tomato-growing enthusiasm online. We're in. Here are the details, courtesy of Maria Onesto Moran at Green Home Experts:

One Heirloom Project is in full bloom!

In its second year, One Heirloom Project’s mission is to encourage urban gardeners to connect as a community through growing the same plant. Throughout the month of February the public was invited to vote for a variety of organic heirloom tomatoes. And the winner is...Arkansas Traveler!

One Heirloom Project participants are encouraged to share pictures, stories, advice and information about their tomatoes throughout the growing season. They’ll be able to post on our blog, Facebook and Twitter. We will also have a potluck party to showcase the delicious fruit during harvest time. Additionally, stay tuned for our very popular canning classes! They’re returning to our schedule this year and will be held inside our newly expanded store!

Plants are $3.50 each and will be available for sale at Green Home Experts, 811 South Blvd in Oak Park, in May. Those interested are encouraged to pre-order their plants as only 200 are available. Profits from the sales will benefit the Forest Park Community Garden and Root-Riot. Call us at 708-660-1443 or email us at gogreen@ghexperts.com to reserve your plants today.

Throughout the season, gardeners will connect with each other at http://ghexperts.wordpress.com to share advice, pictures and anecdotes about their tomatoes. Photo contests will be held around harvest time, as well as a potluck dinner to showcase the delicious fruits.

At the end of the summer, Green Home Experts will offer canning classes for One Heirloom participants. Classes on pickling and applesauce making will also be offered. For more information regarding the One Heirloom Project, or to pre-order plants, please contact Green Home Experts at (708) 660-1443 or gogreen@ghexperts.com.