By Blake Jackson
The University of Missouri’s annual Tomato Festival may last only a day, but the preparation begins months in advance. Held at the Jefferson Farm and Garden, the free event celebrates its 21st year by giving visitors the chance to sample more than 200 varieties of tomatoes, tomatillos, and peppers while learning from students, researchers, and Extension specialists.
Much of the work is carried out by students in Mizzou’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources. From starting seeds in the greenhouse to transplanting and maintaining crops throughout the summer, students gain hands-on experience managing real agricultural challenges such as pests, weather fluctuations, and plant health.
“The festival is a unique opportunity for students to take ownership of a large-scale agricultural project while interacting directly with members of the communities we serve,” said Tim Reinbott, director of field operations at the Missouri Agricultural Experiment Station and director of the Tomato Festival.
Mizzou junior Mary Davison helped organize and monitor more than 200 tomato varieties during the growing season. Reflecting on the experience, she said, "In class, you often study one factor at a time. Out here, everything is happening at once. Weather, pests, soil conditions and timing all affect each other, so you learn how to make decisions with real consequences."
Graduate student William Lee said the project encourages students to take responsibility and solve problems independently.
“Tim provides us with enough latitude to manage the rows and solve problems ourselves, believing that this freedom is how we truly learn,” Lee said.
During the festival, visitors can compare different growing systems, including traditional cages, trellises, cattle panels, and commercial stake-and-weave methods, while learning which approaches may work best in their own gardens.
For Lee, engaging with festival attendees is one of the most rewarding parts of the experience.
“My favorite part is interacting with the public,” Lee said. “I love talking with the visitors to find out what tomato varieties they like and how they can replicate the farm’s setup at home.”
The event not only provides Missourians with practical, research-based gardening information but also gives students valuable real-world experience that supports their future agricultural careers, reflecting Mizzou’s land-grant mission of education, research, and community outreach.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-bastetamn
Categories: Missouri, Education, General