Tomatomania and Roger's Gardens Celebrate
'Harvard Square':
The 2024 Tomato of the Year
Gardeners and tomato lovers, rejoice! It's that time of the year again when Tomatomania and Roger's Gardens unveil the much-anticipated Tomato of the Year. For 2024, the crown goes to the sensational 'Harvard Square', a variety that has consistently wowed us with its beauty, robust production, and, most importantly, its superior taste.
A Star Is Born
'Harvard Square' first graced the trial gardens of Roger's Gardens around 2019 and has been a delightful surprise ever since. Year after year, it has proven its worth, surpassing our expectations with its exceptional performance.
Why 'Harvard Square'?
So, what sets 'Harvard Square' apart from its illustrious predecessors like 'Melanie’s Ballet', 'Bronze Torch', 'Madame Marmande', 'Lava Flow', and 'Thorburn’s Terra Cotta'? Here are just a few reasons:
Striking Aesthetics
With its enchanting stripes and rich green color that's beautifully interlaced with red, 'Harvard Square' is a visual treat. The inside flesh flaunts a red or pink flush that promises a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Outstanding Flavor
The taste of 'Harvard Square' is nothing short of amazing. Our records consistently note its full, sweet flavor profile, encapsulated in a simple "Wow, plain wow!" This mid-sized beefsteak type has even produced some fruits nearing the 14oz mark, a testament to its potential for impressive size and flavor.
Vigorous Production
This is a sturdy plant that won't get out of hand, making it ideal for both expansive gardens and more controlled spaces. Gardeners can look forward to a very productive plant that typically reaches around five feet in height, offering a variety of fruit sizes throughout the season.
Culinary Delights
'Harvard Square' is versatile in the kitchen, perfect for enhancing salads, sandwiches, burgers, and more. Its unique flavor also makes for an exceptional salsa verde when combined with the tangy notes of green tomatoes. Just a dash of salt is enough to elevate this tomato's taste to new heights.
Growing Tips
While it's a hardy plant, there are a couple of things to keep in mind when growing 'Harvard Square'. Its lush foliage can hide the fruits, making them a treasure to find. Judging the ripeness might also be tricky, as the green when ripe (GWR) variety tends to flush slightly yellow, especially near the stem, when it's ready to be picked. It's a fun challenge that adds to the gardening experience, making the harvest all the more rewarding.
'Harvard Square' is not just a tomato; it's a gardening adventure with a delicious payoff. Whether you're an avid or a casual gardener, this Tomato of the Year is set to become the star of your garden—and your kitchen. So, let's raise a toast to 'Harvard Square,' the tomato that is sure to excite your palate and beautify your garden space this season.