It's a Big Thing, Thing! - Nov 10, 2009
Australia is a big country so perhaps that’s why we are fascinated by big things. Gardeners are fascinated by big things too and that’s why we have competitions to see who can grow the biggest pumpkin. A pumpkin vine can take over your entire backyard so big thing lovers will be happy to hear about a new tomato plant that can produce huge fruit up to 500grams.
The tomato plant is called “ Fatty ” and it is available in your local garden centre now. Proceeds go to the Starlight Children’s Foundation. “ Fatty ” is a select form of an heirloom variety so the fruit tastes much sweeter than those rock hard things you find in fruit shops. When picked ripe from the vine, it will be the sweetest tomato you have ever eaten.
Fatty is a fast growing vigorous variety that will grow up to 2 metres high. Tie the plant to a stake using budding tape. Remove any side shoots so all the plants energy goes into producing huge fruit. Liquid fertilise every week with “Harvest” for best results.
As the huge heart shaped fruit ripen give some to your neighbours. Word will soon spread that you grow the biggest tomatoes in Macarthur. It’s a big thing, thing.
Tim Pickles is a CNP horticulturist and Director of Tim’s Garden Centre 2 Queen St Campbelltown 46267022.