I get volunteer tomatoes every year, also. Last year, they were hardier than anything that I grew from seed. Most seemed to be some sort of hybrid from other types I've grown (not enough distance between my plants to prevent cross-pollination).
Karen--please tell me about your Snow White cherry tomatoes. I've not heard of them, but they sound interesting. Do you have a favorite source for them? Are they known to be sweet, prolific?
I always find friends to give away my extra plants to, as well, I always start way more than I need because I'm not positive that everything will germinate. This year, I'll be helping a friend that will probably not have time to plant her garden due to her husband needing extra care.
A number of years ago, we were living in a temporary apartment while our new home was being built. As I was driving through a nearby neighborhood, I noticed a beautiful property--I circled around several times before noticing a sign that said "Beauty is meant to be shared--please feel free to come in and enjoy". So, I parked and started exploring this beautiful property. I often ran into the owner and enjoyed talking with him. This was one of my inspirations to start gardening, and I've always loved the thought that gardens were meant to be shared. I love having the opportunity to share extra plants, especially ones that will feed and nourish, such as tomatoes.
Back on topic--does anyone do anything special with fertilizer or growing conditions to grow that perfect tomato? I am now growing mine mostly in earthboxes, so have steady supply of fertilizer. Had a terrible time with blossom end rot, but that was probably due to the horrible amounts of rain we had last spring (washed out all of the necessary nutrients).
