Since the first warm days of spring, I noticed the beginnings of “volunteer” cherry tomato plants growing between our 9 foot tall white privacy fence and behind our gas grill. As weeks have passed and many a hot, sultry day with ample rainfall, the plants have flourished beyond anything I’ve ever actually planted. The plants are full, lush and easily 4-5 feet tall, loaded heavy with tomatoes.



I call them “volunteers” as they self-sprouted from the remnants of last years semi-successful, “cherry tomatoes in a big pot” container-gardening project. Apparently, Mother Nature is a better vegetable gardener than I and liked this rather random, protected spot better. My “volunteer” cilantro is also coming up here with abandon.
As of today, I grabbed my colander and perching cautiously on the edge of the deck (trying not to take a header into the garden), I picked these beautifully ripened gems!
Much to my surprise, next to the jacuzzi, where last year’s grape tomatoes were growing in a pot, I have three very hearty grape tomato plants which are growing through the cracks in between my patio pavers. Here’s proof!


