GREEN-FINGERED enthusiasts from Somerset keen to grow their own tomatoes this year (2010) can get free advice on the topic at a Taunton garden centre this weekend (June 5 & 6).

The Grow Your Own (GYO) team at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre in Monkton Heathfield, between Bridgwater and Taunton, are offering complimentary help to visitors during normal opening hours on June 5 and 6.

Norma Moore, General Manager of the award-winning garden centre, explained: “Tomatoes are one of the easiest crops to grow if you haven’t tried GYO before. Nothing beats the satisfaction of eating your own, home-grown produce. We’re inviting people to come in and receive free advice on how to get the best from their tomatoes this year.

“We have one of the largest collections of tomatoes, 20 varieties in total, in the Westcountry on show and for sale at the garden centre. We also stock all the necessary equipment and fertilisers to help people grow their own plants.”

Among the items the garden centre is stocking especially for the event is a Westland organic Instant Tomato Planter, which is priced £5.99 or £10 for two.

Norma added: “It uses the successful and innovative West+ formulation to promote strong root growth and sustained plant development, so plants are healthier and the crops are tastier.

“The compost is enriched with natural potash for improved crop quality and abundant fruits. It uses the innovative Water Smart System that retains and evenly distributes water. This encourages strong and healthy plant growth.”

The Westland organic Instant Tomato Planter is suitable for use in the greenhouse, the conservatory or on the patio. As well as tomatoes, the Planter may also be used to grow peppers, aubergines and courgettes.

To find out more, please visit Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield near Taunton, or call 01823 412381.

Photograph caption: Matthew Vowles, Shop Advisor at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre, with the Westland organic Instant Tomato Planter.