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Talkin Tomato

There are gardeners of all stripes in the world from farmers with fields of wheat to crazy bulb guys with fields of narcissus. We grow different vegetation as varied as grains, fruit, vegetables, grasses, shrubs, trees, and flowers. We all have different interests that others view as a bit absurd. My friends think but seldom say to me, “Mugs, how many pink roses do you need? or “No offense, but I can’t really tell the difference between them.” or “Why don’t you spend your time growing things you can eat?”

I have come to discover that most backyard gardeners do not want to have long discussions about the lilies or iris or gladiolas growing in my yard. They may be willing to occasionally discuss a lilac or a hydrangea with me, but more often than not, they would rather talk tomato.

If gardeners grow only one thing each year, it is most likely a tomato. When talking to my gardening friends, I know I’ll get eyes glazed over when I start to describe the endearing quality of balloon flower, so I’ve learned to start a conversation with this most vital question.

“How are your tomatoes doing?”

Minnesotans discuss the weather. D.C. area residents discuss the traffic. Hawaiians discuss the surf report. Gardeners discuss tomatoes.

Although, I may personally consider the following photos of my June garden blooms the loveliest photos, I have learned that if I want to keep people talking to me, it is best to start with the tomatoes.