Garden Candy

STARTING SEEDLINGS In early spring, start indoors about 2 months before outdoor night temperatures are reliably in the 50°F (10°C) range. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy, and very warm 75°F (24°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant into deeper individual containers, burying stems up to base of leaves. Maintain at 70° (21°C). Feed with halfstrength liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant the vigorous climbers 3 feet apart into rich soil in full sun once nights stay securely above 55° (13°C). GROWING NOTES Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant tomatoes several inches deeper than they were growing in containers. Provide strong stakes or tall wire cages at planting time. Mulch to provide the even moisture tomato plants need to prevent cracking. For best flavor, don’t over water once fruit begins to ripen. HARVEST AND USE Harvest often and enjoy as colorful sweet garden candy snacks or to adorn summer salads. Quickly sauté all 3 colors with fresh basil or dill. For tasty treats, cut in half and dry for use in cooking or as winter snacks.