Tomatoes: Home Hydroponic Vs. Store Bought

We've all seen those beautiful clusters of red ripe tomatoes in the produce section of the store. They look uniform in size, bright red and blemish-free with bright green stems holding them together. However, if you grow your own hydroponically, there is a much higher chance that your crop will taste far better than those on the rack.

So, why is this?

Remember, tomatoes are big business. Although a vast percentage of tomatoes are for making sauces, fast food meals and more, the hydroponic tomato business is flourishing. However, the tomatoes that the commercial hydroponic greenhouses produce are usually special hybrids they breed for color, uniformity of size and the uncanny ability to all ripen at the same time. Unfortunately, these qualities add up to nothing but profit for the hydro farmer, and bland-tasting fruit on consumer’s tables.

Why isn't taste the first consideration? You would think that would be a top priority, but it's all about presentation. Think about it. Would you rather buy tomatoes that are irregular in size and color, with bruises and spots, or perfectly-shaped and brightly-colored fruit? Taste aside, I'm sure you would go for looks. Remember, they pick those juicy fruits when they are half green and half orange so they can make the trip to the store, which could take weeks. 




MyPotsandPlanters- Best Selection, Lowest Cost.

When you grow your own, you can control some or all of the process; from picking the seeds to controlling the growing medium. You even have some control of the temperature and light levels, along with fertilization, all of which makes for a better tasting tomato. Not having to pick them weeks early, or all at once allows them to mature the way Mother Nature intended, with all the juicy goodness we crave.

In taste tests, most consumers found it difficult to tell the difference in taste between tomatoes grown in soil versus those grown hydroponically. This is because, with the right basic ingredients, such as high-quality seeds, ample water, proper fertilization and plenty of light, nature can make it work.

So, don't worry about competing with the grocery stores. With hydroponics, your tomatoes will win the taste test every time.