Ron’s monster tomatoes

WHILE there aren’t any killer tomatoes in Leongatha, there are certainly huge ones, with local Ron Zaghet’s crop thriving again despite the cool summer conditions.

One monster he harvested on Friday weighed in at 900 grams.

Ron is unsure what species it is, but the Italian migrant believes it likely originates from his homeland.

A friend purchased seeds from an Italian at Dandenong Market and Ron continues to enjoy a plentiful bounty, setting aside seeds each year for the next growing season.

He also grows Belgian Giant tomatoes, with his largest currently weighing 850 grams.

The retired Nerrena dairy farmer, then fisherman, enjoys seeing his tomato crop flourish, happily sharing the tasty fruit with family and friends.

While much of the crop goes into making pasta sauce, the tomatoes are also great to consume fresh, despite their giant size.

“We eat them in salad,” Ron said.

While he grows other produce such as corn, it’s only his tomatoes that are unusually large.

Perhaps Ron’s Italian origins help account for his gardening success.

His enthusiasm makes it evident that his tomato growing is a passion, even if he is pragmatic about why he continues to enjoy the hobby.

“I’ve got to do something. I’m nearly 87,” he said.