all too short a date

Shakespeare once wrote that "summer's lease hath all too short a date." Was he talking about heirloom tomatoes? Maybe.

A love of heirloom foods is more of an aesthetic, a lifestyle, that anything else.

For one thing, you must come to grips with imperfection. Heirlooms are praised for their exceptional taste but, looks are another thing. "Is it supposed to look like that?" my friend asked when I sent along a photo of one of our green Cherokee Purple tomatoes in all its bumpy, imperfect glory. Well, yes, it is.

For another, you must reconcile to the fact that all good things come to an end and, with heirloom tomatoes, those good things come to an end rather quickly. Our objective at Stargrove NC is to grow a superior heirloom tomato, nurture it carefully, pick it with attention, pack it lovingly, and send it to its final destination as soon as possible.

The taste is superior. You really can't buy it in a store or even a farmer's market. It's the hallmark of summer. It is, alas, all too brief.

To get on the list, send us an email at info@stargrovenc.com. We'll let you know when they're ready and bring them to you according to your schedule.

We're having some this morning. Pass the salt.