Event Date(s)
Event Time
-
Location
U of I Extension Winnebago County Office
County
Winnebago
Join Local Foods and Small Farms Educator Grant McCarty for a practical, grower‑friendly program focused on helping you succeed with tomatoes—from choosing the right varieties to managing pests, diseases, and environmental challenges throughout the season. Whether you're new to tomato growing or looking to improve your harvest, this session will give you the essential tools to grow healthier plants and produce high‑quality fruit.
Those who attend will learn about...
- General Production
- Choosing tomato varieties (plus peppers and eggplant as companions)
- Planting basics for strong early growth
- Trellising and staking systems
- Seasonal Management & Problems
- Common tomato insect pests
- Key tomato diseases and prevention strategies
- Physical disorders (blossom end rot, cracking, etc.)
- Environmental issues affecting growth and fruit quality
- Harvest
- Knowing when tomatoes are ready
- Handling for the best flavor and shelf life
Terrific Tomatoes will take place at 5:30-7:00 PM on May 21st, 2026. Join us at the U of I Extension Winnebago County Office (1040 N Second St., Rockford, IL 61107). There is no cost to attend. Pre-registration is not required, but is requested.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact
Program Areas