Heirloom Tomatoes
Heirloom vegetables are vintage varieties that have been passed down, through several generations of a family because of it's valued characteristics. These varieties are generally 50 to 100 years old, although many are much older. All heirlooms are open-pollinated (i.e. they pollinate naturally) and usually breed true-to-type. Heirloom varieties are genetically unique and inherent in this uniqueness is an evolved resistance to pests and diseases and an adaptation to specific growing conditions and climates. Unlike hybrids, which have been bred largely for uniformity in size, shape, and ripening, as well as for durability in shipping, heirlooms have often been selected for flavor and tenderness.
Fresher, Better Taste
Commercially grown tomatoes sometimes get picked green and then are artificially ripened, leaving them with little flavor. Heirlooms, which grow from seeds handed down over generations, tend to show up at the farmers' market the day they leave the field. That gives them a vine-ripe sweetness rarely found at run-of-the-mill grocery stores.
Healthy Benefits
Most tomato varieties provide iron, potassium, fiber, a host of B vitamins, and quercetin, a phytochemical that may reduce types of cancer as well as protect against heart and degenerative eye diseases. But the tomato's biggest selling claim to fame is lycopene, which gives the fruit its bright red and orange colors, is associated with lower risk of both macular degeneration and several types of cancers, including prostate, cervical, skin, breast, and lung. Lycopene may also help lower the risk of coronary artery disease and, along with tomatoes' vitamin C content, stimulate the immune system.
...Did you know that cooked tomatoes contain
two to eight times more lycopene than if raw?
Environmental Benefits
On top of the health perks, eating heirlooms benefits the environment. Heirloom farmers tend to grow organically, so you're more likely to support a sustainable agricultural process, while also keeping pesticides out of your diet. According to organizations like Slow Food USA and Seed Savers Exchange, the cultivation of these seeds is one of the best ways to preserve a crop's natural diversity.
Heirlooms at the Memphis Farmers Market
Ready to buy some heirloom tomatoes and others vegetables, or learn how to grow your own? Come by the market and visit with these farmers. They would happy to help you!
Bennett-Burks Farm Nursery
Heirloom garden plants, gourmet produce, container gardens, tomatoes, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, squash, garden soil, garden seeds, heirloom beans, figs, pears & muscadines
Downing Hollow Farm
Gourmet heirloom produce
Flora Bluebird Farm
Gourmet heirloom produce
Richardson Vegetable Farm
Peppers, melons, heirloom tomatoes, okra, potatoes, squash, green beans, onions, eggplant
The Gracious Garden
Heirloom vegetables, arugula, cherry tomatoes, lettuces, edamame, yellow & green beans, spinach and okra
Willow Oaks Farm
Potted plants, annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, mixed pots, tropicals, indoor plants, (sometimes watermelon, sweet corn, & heirloom tomatoes)
Whitton Flowers and Produce
An array of cut flowers and specialty vegetables and herbs including heirloom varieties
Patsy’s Herb Garden
Herbs, assorted veggies, heirloom varieties, fresh cut flowers
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