Tomato Talk

Welcome to the June episode of Tomato Talk Live! Hosts Lauren, aka Mrs. Tomato Head, and Jen Joy bring you an exciting show featuring New York Times bestselling author William Alexander. As they celebrate almost a year of Tomato Talk Live, Lauren and Jen dive into the fascinating history of tomatoes with their esteemed guest.

In this episode, William Alexander, known for his critically acclaimed books "The $64 Tomato" and "Ten Tomatoes That Changed the World," shares captivating insights into the origins and journey of tomatoes. From the coastal hills of Peru to the markets of Italy and beyond, discover how tomatoes became a staple in our kitchens.

Join the lively conversation as William uncovers myths and legends, including the infamous Salem tomato trial, the evolution of ketchup, and the impact of major companies like Heinz on the tomato industry. Learn about the challenges and innovations in tomato farming, from Florida fields to high-tech greenhouses in Canada.

Engage with the Tomato Talk community as they explore the world of tomatoes, share fun facts, and give away exciting prizes, including copies of William's book and pruning shears. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a curious tomato enthusiast, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves the juicy red fruit.

Join hosts Lauren and Jen as they celebrate a special anniversary episode of Tomato Talk Live, featuring renowned tomato expert and author of "Epic Tomatoes", Craig LeHoullier. Explore countless tomato varieties and delve deeper into the Dwarf Tomato Project. Learn about container gardening, the magic of straw bales, and the wonders of growing dwarf tomatoes. Gain expert gardening tips and soak up the wisdom from Craig's years of experience.

This episode unravels the thrilling story behind the globally loved Cherokee Purple tomato. Find out how a simple seed package led to global appreciation. Learn about seed selection, gardening practices, and the importance of continuous seed saving. Dive into a fascinating discussion of various tomato varieties presided over by Craig, a wellspring of extensive tomato knowledge.

Discover trusted sources for heirloom seeds that prioritize authenticity and historical accuracy. Engage in an intriguing discourse on the potential of tomato hybridization. Learn about the rich complexities of tomato genetics, from dominant and recessive traits to the surprises of hybrid selection and accidental crosses. Hear about Craig's work with the Dwarf Tomato Project and his upcoming book, a must-have guide for all tomato enthusiasts.

This episode is a treasure trove of gardening knowledge, where we talk about soil improvement, the role of compost, the science of companion planting, and the benefits of dense planting techniques. With Craig's expert advice, gardening becomes an exciting and fruitful journey.

Among the numerous topics covered in this episode, discover the art and thrill of tomato breeding, the joy of solving tomato-related mysteries, and the fascinating process of identifying cross-breeds. Hear the story behind the naming of rare tomato varieties and learn why the healthiest plant is the best for seed-saving. Tune in and dive deep into the captivating world of tomato growing!

Embark on an exciting journey into the fascinating world of tomato breeding with our special guest, Bill Yoder, the Rockstar of the Tomato World, on this exclusive episode of Tomato Talk Live. From sharing his unique transition from corporate IT into tomato farming to presenting his enchanting Depeche Mode Collection, Bill bares it all about his love for tomatoes. Don't miss this chance to delve deep into the world of tomato cultivation, fight against diseases, optimize your crops, and learn from the best in the field.

Gain fascinating insights into the world of tomatoes with Bill's unique growing experiences, focusing specifically on the high-value potato leaves, uncovering their benefits and shedding light on the disease-resistant properties that make them a gardener's delight. The episode also pays tribute to the contributions of Fred Hempel and introduces listeners to the latest tomato varieties. It culminates with practical tips and a sneak peek into the future of plant cultivation.

Discover the mesmerizing agricultural innovation of the Depeche Mode tomato line that's revolutionizing tomato cultivation. From the stunning beauty of the 'bi-colored striped Depeche Mode dwarf' to the superior yield of the Adelaide Festival variety, your world of tomatoes is set for a major transformation. Plus, learn about anthocyanin varieties, Brics sweetness testing, cross-breeding experiments for disease resistance, and much more in this treat of an episode.

Breeding not just a hobby but a high-stake adventure, hear about classics like 'Crimson' and potential 'Journey' creations inspired by 80s bands like Duran Duran. In addition to exploring the joy of creating new tomato varieties, the practical considerations of pest dynamics, high tunnels vs. outdoor farming, and the implications for small farmers are analyzed. Uncover how this breeding saga intertwines intense enthusiasm for tomatoes, exciting genetics experiments, and the push for a sustainable agricultural environment.

In a refreshing narrative, Bill shares his favorite tomato varieties and tells why they exceeded his expectations. As the conversation unfolds, you'll discover intriguing breeds like Kazoolas and Jarsons, old-school favorites like the Milka's Red Bulgarian, and some surprise varieties. Above all, descend into the captivating complexities and immense rewards of tomato breeding, as revealed by a seasoned expert.