GROWING TERRIFIC TOMATOES

With Anne Gibson themicrogardener.com

• Use scissors to snip off the vine to avoid tearing and damaging the stem or immature fruit.

HOW TO RIPEN TOMATOES FASTER

Tomatoes ripen naturally with warmth and humidity. In fact, they have their best flavour when picked ripe. So, store at room temperature. What if your tomatoes are not ripening fast enough? The easiest solution is add them to a paper bag with a banana or apple. These fruits release ethylene gas that can help speed up the process. Who can wait?

HOW TO STORE RIPE TOMATOES

If your tomatoes are ripe or overripe and you’re not ready to use them yet, store in the refrigerator. Alternatively, use a preservation method. Freeze tomatoes whole, chopped or cooked to lock in flavour and nutrients. Or use a dehydrator or oven-dry tomatoes to remove moisture. Then, preserve them when semi-dry by storing in oil with herbs or garlic in sterilised jars. https://themicrogardener.com/top-tips-for-growing-terrifictomatoes/#more-43565

Looking for something to do on Bribie at Easter?

Bundaberg and the Sunshine Coast will set up at the Show, as well as members/local growers, to sell orchid and foliage plants for those keen to add to their collections. Beware – Orchids are addictive!

A major prize raffle will be drawn towards the end of the Show with tickets only available at the Show with other spot raffles being run throughout the Show.

The Bribie Island Orchid Society Inc., founded some thirty-six years ago, currently has 80 plus enthusiastic members from all walks of lifebeginners with just a few plants, through to experienced growers. President Diann Sirett is confident that our Easter Show will be bigger and better than ever and visitors will not be disappointed.