The thrill of discovering a “new” heirloom tomato

It was Betty Robison of Robison Acres in Scenery Hill who told me, “you have to grow ‘Golden King of Siberia'” tomato as she pulled the tall plant from a flat, handing it to me.

I was there doing a story on their Fairy Garden Trail, but her husband John grows lots of cool heirloom plants to sell too.

Not only is the tomato a beautiful yellow color with a little red streak inside, it’s big and most importantly produces a meaty flavorful fruit.

‘Golden King of Siberia’ tomato from Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds.

The one pound tomatoes made the perfect compliment for basil, olives and bread served over Labor Day as an appetizer.

The seed can be found at Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds along with a host of other cool varieties.

I’ve grown lots of tomatoes over the years and love to discover something I haven’t tried before. It’s one great reason to visit as many independent garden centers and nurseries. They have their own specialty.

I picked up ‘Green Tiger’ at Plant-It Earth Greenhouse near Blairsville. It’s another seed from Baker Creek. I love the unique color of this little tomato only a couple inches long. The flavor is intense and wonderful. I love to get kids to take the leap of faith to try and ripe green striped tomato. When green tomatoes turn a little yellow and are soft to the touch, they are ready to be harvested.

Post up your favorite tomato on my Facebook page and keep growing different things, it’s fun!