Fresh Florida Tomato Month takes place in April. It is a month of bountiful tomato harvest in Florida, which is the second-highest producer of tomatoes in the United States. Florida, unlike most of the rest of the United States, has really good weather and can grow different plants all year round. April is the perfect time to celebrate tomatoes, as gardeners in many states have just begun planting their tomato crops. So let’s celebrate the health benefits of tomatoes, which are heavily packed with vitamins, and enjoy tasty tomato food recipes.
History of Fresh Florida Tomato Month
Tomatoes are edible berries of the plant called Solanum Iycopersicum, commonly known as the tomato plant. Tomatoes, known to be native to the American continent, can be traced to the early Aztecs around 700 A.D. In the 15th century, the Spanish conquered the Aztecs and found tomatoes among other plants, which the Spanish explorers took back to Europe and introduced to its settlers. The English word ‘tomato’ is derived from the Spanish word ‘tomate,’ which was in turn derived from the Mexican Nahuatl word ‘tomatl.’
In the early 1700s, North America as a British colony grew tomatoes in the part of the country known as South Carolina today. However, the tomato was mostly grown as an ornamental plant, and not for food. This was because people at that time believed it was poisonous.
A man named Thomas Jefferson, who ate tomatoes in Paris, sent some seeds back to America. Advocates campaigning for the culinary use of tomatoes soon arose, and tomato breeders were encouraged to develop several varieties of tomatoes. 1870 marked the start of a great tomato enterprise, and today the crops are cultivated in every state in the country, with Florida being the second-highest producer of tomatoes.
When you want fresh flavor, nothing beats a delicious, farm-grown tomato. Celebrate Fresh Florida Tomato Month in April and discover the exciting variety of tasty, vibrant tomatoes that can add color to your everyday life.
Fresh Florida Tomato Month timeline
The early Aztecs farm tomatoes for food.
Spanish explorers introduce tomatoes to Europe.
North America as a British colony grows tomatoes.
Farmers grow tomatoes in great numbers to be sold and consumed.
Fresh Florida Tomato Month FAQs
How long do tomatoes take to grow in Florida?
According to some data, tomatoes usually take about 90 — 110 days to grow in Florida.
Do tomatoes like hot soil?
Because chilly soil will delay their growth, many farmers believe tomatoes grow better in warm soil.
How can tomatoes be preserved?
There are many ways to preserve tomatoes, such as freezing, canning, drying, or even pickling.
Fresh Florida Tomato Month Activities
Cook tomato dishes
A great way to celebrate Fresh Florida Tomato Month is to try tasty tomato recipes. From easy salads to fresh salsas and rich soups, there is an option for everyone to enrich their diet with tomatoes.
Share useful information on tomatoes
Share useful information about Florida tomatoes on social media, such as their amazing health benefits and the best ways to preserve them. You can also tell your friends and family about them in person.
Host a tomato-themed party or attend one
If you’re wondering what food you can serve at your party, without trying too much or going overboard with tomato recipes, you can just order pizzas for everyone. Pizzas have tomatoes in them and are so tasty too!
5 Interesting Facts About Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in vitamins
Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A.
Tomatoes are not always red
Tomatoes come in varieties of colors, such as yellow, pink, purple, white, and even black.
Ohio’s official state beverage
Tomato juice is considered the official state beverage of Ohio.
Tomatoes caused lead poisoning
Acidic food like tomatoes caused early British dishware made from pewter to leak lead, which poisoned the food.
Tomatoes did not originate in Italy
Tomatoes were first grown by the Aztecs in 700 A.D.
Why We Love Fresh Florida Tomato Month
We get to enjoy fresh tomatoes in April
Thanks to tomato farmers in Florida, we get to enjoy fresh tomatoes in April. We get to make fresh soups and salads and enjoy them.
An opportunity to learn new tomato recipes
So many people will be sharing their tomato recipes. Learn new recipes all throughout Fresh Florida Tomato Month.
Have fun with friends and family
Fresh Florida Tomato Month is an occasion to host parties and relish various tomato delicacies with family and friends. Even online interactions are bolstered by this event.
Fresh Florida Tomato Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 1 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 1 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 1 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April 1 | Saturday |
| 2029 | April 1 | Sunday |
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