From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Joliet, IL

my 3.83 pounder is not an official record but i need to clearify something for my own mind and our local tomato contest. my 3.83 was a double and the stem grew adjacent and sandwiched in between the double fused megabloom. when i trimmed the stem i could only go flush to the tomato on my cut with out damaging the tomato. so if it was to be an official world record as example with my scenario would the judges have to damage the tomato to rip out the portion of stem encased between fissures or is the GPC guideline for stem one half inch from the nearest adjacent edge of ttomato? last years stem came in through the top no brainer. this one with portion of stem wedged between fissures and having to pry it out to cut to half inch has me curious to exact ruling in this scenario. any input is welcome.

7/28/2014 8:19:50 PM

Allentown, PA

This is a very interesting question Shazzy and one I have thought about.

If someone has grown a giant that has the shape that has engulfed the stem what exactly is the rule dictating where to cut in order to remain within contest guidelines?

It's my belief that if you did have a tomato with this particular issue, you would cut the stem as closely to the surface the tomato as possible without damaging the tomato itself.

7/29/2014 7:28:42 AM

Joliet, IL

thats what i did and thought appropriate and will use this guideline in our local contest this year to stay consistent and will do so in the future unless a clarification is made by rules committee.....thanks for the input!!!!!

7/29/2014 8:44:55 AM

Allentown, PA

Your welcome! Glad I could help. :O)

7/29/2014 4:29:38 PM