Call for gardening tips 

The Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County recently celebrated the most successful Tomato Extravaganza to date—due in large part to the generous support of donors and the community.

Despite 110-degree temperatures, more than 400 visitors (a record number) showed up to sample dozens of varieties of tomatoes and basil, view fruit-tree grafting, worm-composting demonstrations, and gather tips for growing healthy, sustainable gardens. This annual event is free to the public. Proceeds from tomato and basil plant sales help support the Master Gardeners’ Demonstration Garden currently being developed in San Luis Obispo.

We especially thank these organizations for contributing to our festival: Achievement House; Cal Poly Organic Farm; California Rare Fruit Growers; and San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden. Special thanks go to Tutti Frutti growers for supplying most of the tomatoes for the tasting. And for those already planning their gardens for next year, the winners of the tomato and basil taste tests included Dona, Red Zebra and Sarah Black tomatoes; and Anise, Lime and Thai basil.

`To get answers to any gardening questions that can’t wait until next year’s Tomato Extravaganza, contact the UCCE Master Gardener Helpline at 781-5939.