Introduction

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable to grow in gardens or even in pots on balconies. They are easy to cultivate and usually produce a good yield. However, sometimes we may end up with extra tomato plants than we need. In this article, we will discuss what to do with extra tomato plants.

Share with Friends and Neighbors

One of the best things you can do with extra tomato plants is to share them with your friends and neighbors. Many people love to have fresh, homegrown tomatoes, but they may not have the time, space or knowledge to grow them on their own. You can offer your extra tomato plants to them as a gift or a barter. Sharing not only helps you get rid of the extra tomato plants, but it also fosters a sense of community and generosity.

Sell Them at a Farmers Market or Online

If you have a large surplus of tomato plants, you may consider selling them at a farmers market or online. This can help you recoup some of the costs of growing the plants and make a little extra income. Farmers markets are usually held on weekends, and you may have to pay a fee to set up a booth. On the other hand, online marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace offer a wider reach to potential buyers, but you may have to worry about shipping the plants and dealing with potential scammers. Be sure to price your plants reasonably and accurately describe their variety, size, condition, and care instructions.

Donate to a Community Garden or School

Another great option for extra tomato plants is to donate them to a community garden or to a school. Community gardens are shared plots of land where people can grow their own fruits and vegetables. They usually rely on donations, grants, and volunteers to sustain themselves. By giving them your extra tomato plants, you are helping to support a local food system and providing healthy produce to those who may not otherwise have access to it. Similarly, schools, especially those with gardening programs, can benefit from your donation by teaching children about plant growth, nutrition, and environmental stewardship.

Compost Them

If you cannot find someone to take your extra tomato plants or you just prefer to dispose of them, you can compost them. Composting is a natural way of breaking down organic matter like plants, leaves, and food scraps, into rich soil-like material called compost. Composting can divert waste from landfills, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve soil health. Tomato plants are suitable for composting because they are rich in nitrogen, which is essential for plant growth. You can chop them up into smaller pieces or leave them whole, and mix them with other compostable materials like shredded paper, kitchen scraps, and dry leaves. Turn the pile occasionally to aerate it and water it to keep it moist. In a few months, you will have a nutritious and eco-friendly fertilizer for your garden.

Conclusion

There are many things you can do with extra tomato plants, from sharing them with others, selling them for profit, donating them for a good cause, or composting them for enrichment. Whatever you choose, remember to appreciate the beauty and value of growing your own food and to connect with others who share your passion. Happy gardening!