Blackrock Greenhouse

This morning, I drove out to Blackrock Greenhouse* to buy tomato plants. I probably won't put them out into the garden for a while yet, because our night temperatures are still low (30s to 40s), but I couldn't wait any longer to see the little starts in all their newness and greenness.

I bought my usual varieties: Early Girl and Husky Gold. I'm also trying some Early Goliaths, which were recommended by George, my neighbor. George's garden is the envy of the neighborhood. Because he produces such large, luscious vegetables, we like to joke that he has a nuclear reactor in his backyard, but the secret is his devotion to cultivating rich, organic mulch. One summer, not long after I moved in, I looked out my window and saw George lining up on a picnic table what appeared to be dozens of large, red softballs. I was stunned when I realized that the "softballs" were, in fact, tomatoes. Goliaths, indeed.

Not only do Blackrock's tomatoes taste great fresh from the vine, but they preserve well, too.

Husky Golds look like peaches in the jars, and sometimes guests ask if they are ripe enough to eat. This dish is made with penne, shrimp, onions, Husky Golds, and just a splash of Ouzo. Yum!


*Blackrock Greenhouse is operated by Gary and JoAnn Miller, who supply us here in Southeast Idaho with annuals, herbs, and vegetables that are acclimatized to our high-desert temperatures and humidity levels. Their prices are very competitive, and you can't beat Gary and JoAnn's friendly and efficient service. Blackrock Greenhouse is located at 5214 W. Old Highway 91, and their telephone number is (208) 775-3704, They are open weekdays from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.