Catalogs

I have joined the thousands (millions?) of people who are fascinated by seed catalogs at this time of year. Despite my vows to plant a very simple garden next spring, the arrival of the first seed catalog has begun to undo that plan. I have a catalog from Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds in front of me (83 pages!) and each page has something to interest me. Going back as far as the late 19th century, the seed catalog was the reading material of choice for most Americans during the long and dark winters. (No light bulbs) And their catalogs didn’t come with brilliant photos to demonstrate the promise held within the seeds. But I’m sure that the flowery phrases, extolling the virtues of the seeds are pretty much the same as they were in 1890.

Here’s a sample, “Ingegnoli Gigante Liscio – Giant fruit that can grow up to 2 pounds. They are smooth, red and very tasty, having more vibrant tomato flavor than many huge tomatoes; perfect for home gardeners. This historic Italian heirloom was developed around 1900 from varieties “Ponderosa” and “Saint Louis”. It is nearly extinct in America.”  Doesn’t that get to you? Here’s a chance to grow the biggest tomato in the neighborhood (maybe the biggest in the county?) and at the same time, you can be saving a plant from extinction. You can be both macho and tender all at the same time.