Gardening 201 - Let the Truck Patch begin.

My former neighbor Tom, creates a Truck Patch (Tomato Garden) in his back yard each spring. For the last four years, I have had the privilege of being a part of the experience. In years past, the plants were purchased and then planted into the ground. This year, Tom has made the executive decision to personally grow the Tomatoes from seeds. On Monday, March 7, 2011, we began the process; This included prepping the pellets, planting the seeds (Pink Girls) and making sure they were at optimal temperature for growth. I am ashamed to admit that I have yet to post pictures of the progress, but am very pleased to present them to you now.

It all began with a pack of seeds.

 Water is added to the 36 pellets to increase their size, which provides plenty of 

room for the seed to plant their roots, and grow.

 The pellets have grown.

 A hole, 1/4 inch in depth, is dug into each pellet allowing for the seed to be planted.

 Excess soil is used to cover the seed. The plants are then placed on a heating pad,

underneath an artificial light to imitate sunlight. The plants are then covered to 

encourage growth, and to help retain moisture.

 Just a few days later...WE HAVE TWINS!

 Shortly after, the other seeds began to sprout.

 This past weekend, the plants were given a taste of real sunlight.

 To help protect the young plants from wind, rain and animals, a makeshift greenhouse 

has been built to ensure their safety.

I cant believe that it has been almost 2 months since we planted the Pink Girl seeds. The time is quickly approaching for the girls to make their way to the real soil. Eating time is going to be here before we know it!