For the last few years my best friend and my father have been in a competition to grow the biggest tomato. The winner receives a plaque that they get to hang on their wall for the next year. Some may say it is the same as the Stanley Cup or the NBA Finals Trophy because you get your name inscribed on it as the winner that year. If you ask me, they may be taking it a little too seriously!

This years competition lead me to think about how good a fresh-off-the-vine tomato tastes in a salad, on a sandwich, or in some  pasta dish with some basil, onion, and olive oil. You really don’t need a full garden to enjoy the flavors of a fresh tomato. Growing tomato plants can be done simply with a pot, some seeds or a small plant, some water and sunlight.

If your mouth is watering with the thought of a great tomato, here are some tips to help your growing experience be a good one.

1. Tomato plants need strong and direct sunlight to flourish. They also need a slight breeze to develop strong stems. Look around your residence, and find the perfect place for your plant.

2. When planting your tomatoes, you can bury the stems up to the top leaves as tomatoes are able to grow roots all along the stem. Once your plant grows to be about 3 feet tall, remove the lowest leaves to reduce the risk of damage to the plant.

3. Water regularly as the plant grows. Do not allow the soil to become too dry or use too little water. Once your plant begins to develop tomatoes, you can reduce the watering needed. Less water means that the plant is given the chance to concentrate the sugars to give added flavor to your tomato.

If you feel inspired, head out and get a plant and a pot at your local nursery or home improvement store.  No need to get into a competition this year but do start planning on enjoying your first, or next, homegrown tomato.