Where to Find Exciting Seeds?
Annastiina Lepik, a tomato enthusiast from Hiiumaa, plans to grow around two hundred varieties of tomatoes this year, preferring to exchange seeds with other collectors rather than purchasing them commercially.
Annastiina Lepik, who resides in Hiiumaa, Estonia, is a dedicated tomato lover and intends to cultivate approximately two hundred varieties of tomatoes this season, similar to the previous years. She modestly notes that compared to other tomato growers, who may cultivate five hundred to a thousand varieties, her collection is relatively small. Lepik emphasizes the importance of seed exchanges with fellow collectors to obtain unique varieties, expressing that commercially available seeds generally do not offer as many interesting options.
Given the limited space of her greenhouse, Lepik primarily grows her tomatoes outside in pots, opting for shorter varieties that require no stakes for support. She emphasizes that the success of the tomato harvest heavily depends on summer weather conditions and highlights the necessity of choosing a sunny location near their home for optimal growth. While she refrains from endorsing a specific tomato variety for others to grow, she notes that different varieties perform well in different years and that tastes can vary widely among them.
For those interested in outdoor tomato farming, Lepik recommends selecting short varieties bred in regions such as Siberia, Ukraine, or from Jõgeva, specifically suggesting varieties like "Varto" and "Terma." Her insights reflect both her personal experiences and the variability of tomato cultivation based on seasonal conditions, underscoring the joy and diversity found in gardening.