In part 1, I discussed the many different types and categories of tomatoes and talked about how to pick the right varieties for your garden and your needs. This week I will talk about when and how to plant them, and how to care for them throughout the season to maximize their yield, taste, and health (and your own enjoyment!) First lets talk about seasonal timing.

Well its already June here in Western Oregon. We have had a handful of days pushing 90 degrees, and all signs point towards the beautiful sunny season ahead. There are many treasures to be anticipated in our vegetable gardens in the summer months, but perhaps none hold such promise, and such delicious anticipation as home-grown tomatoes. In fact, I know plenty of gardeners for whom the prospect of tomatoes alone could keep them gardening each year.

Last week I took up the discussion of why we would want to grow vegetables from seeds instead of from nursery starts. And as it turns out, there are tons reasons why choosing seeds can be even better than starts. If you missed last week’s post, check out “Part 1: Why Grow Seeds?” to get in the mood.

This post kicks off Portland Edible Gardens’ blog, which aims to provide practical and reliable information, hints, and tips for home vegetable gardeners here in the Portland metropolitan area. Climate and geography play a significant roll (one of many!) in how and when we grow what we grow in our gardens.