Big Tomatoes Now Getting Ripe in Community Gardens

Some of the smaller tomatoes like Sungold started ripening almost two weeks ago. But only a few on the bush were really edible. Now the big tomatoes that were started early are coming in. In the photo Carol Swanson holds only the second 'Big Boy' tomato that has ripened in her raised bed at Twiggs Canal Community Gardens. She was watering today for herself and for a friend in the next plot who is on vacation.

Carol purchased her 'Big Boy' plant from Nichols Farm at the Downtown Farmers' Market in early June. Plots in Twiggs and the other three Community Gardens are available by lottery in March. You can get on the lottery list in January 2014 for next year, but not many openings arise because repeaters get priority. A full 20' x 20' plot rents for $85, a half plot for $42.50. Some garden community service is also required. You must live in zip code 60201 0r 60202 to  be able to rent a plot. For more info go to http://www.cityofevanston.org/parks-recreation/parks/community-gardens/. It's a great opportunity to have your own garden no matter what your circumstance.