Feeling green-fingered? You don't need a large estate to grow your own tomatoes, just a sunny patch of garden or spot on a balcony.
You don’t need a large plot of land in the Mediterranean to grow tomatoes, anyone can start by finding a sheltered suntrap such as a warm sunny corner of the garden, balcony, or even a window sill.
Start with a couple of different tomato varieties to get a selection throughout the summer. They will need plenty of water and nutrients as they grow. “Liquid seaweed is a fantastic organic option,” advises Lance Turner, the founder of Tomato Revolution. “You can also fill a bucket with stinging nettles, cover with water for 5-6 weeks to create a natural tonic which will be rich in potassium to be fed to your tomato plants.”
“Make sure they get support as they grow,” adds Turner, “and pinch out the side shoots regularly.”
Once the tomatoes are ripening, take care not to overwater them as their skin can burst. Only water the soil, not the leaves, to avoid introducing or spreading diseases like blight.
Their naturally pungent leaves and stalks act as an insect repellent, but marigolds can also be planted beside them for added protection against pests.
