tomato Alicante (approx 75 seeds)

A good, reliable all-rounder. Position: Full sun Soil: Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil Rate of growth: Average Hardiness: Tender (will need winter protection) A good all-rounder, 'Alicante' is very reliable and productive, with big trusses of medium-sized fruit with a pleasantly sweet flavour. They're early to mature, so you'll be guaranteed a crop even in less-than-perfect summers. That also makes it a good bet for growing outside (after frosts) – though with the shelter of a greenhouse you'll be even more certain of ripening your crop. A heritage variety introduced in 1925. Garden care: Tie in to supports as it grows, and pinch out the sideshoots. Keep well watered and feed weekly once flowers start toform. Keep water levels in the soil consistent to prevent blossom end rot and split fruit. When plants reach the roof of the greenhouse, pinch out the growing tip above the top truss so the plant concentrates on ripening fruit rather than growing greenery. Restrict the plant to six trusses for better quality fruits. Sow basil among your tomatoes as a companion plant: the scent deters whitefly and it's handy for harvesting to complement your tomatoes perfectly in Mediterranean cooking. Sowing instructions: From January to March, sow in a frost-free greenhouse or windowsill, potting on seedlings individually as they grow. Once all danger of frost has passed, plant into greenhouse borders or into growbags, or harden plants off and plant outside in rich soil in a sunny spot. Sow: January to March Harvest: July to October