Story: Farm to Plate - Tomato Salad
Episode: 13
Presenter: Neville Passmore
Air Date: 14 November 2026

Explore a demonstration farm showcasing hydroponic growing techniques, from raising tomatoes, basil and spring onions through to harvesting and creating a delicious Italian tomato salad.

• Tomato seeds are carefully placed into absorbent rockwool cubes before being immersed in a mild nutrient solution to encourage germination.
• Once seedlings develop four to six leaves, they are transplanted into expanded clay balls, with all potting mix washed away to prevent clogging the recirculating system.
• Tomato plants are trained vertically using suspended strings and clips, with sideshoots removed to encourage a single growing stem.
• Basil is grown directly in smaller expanded clay balls, which help improve capillary action and nutrient uptake.
• Hydroponic systems can be positioned in full sun or light shade in the warmer months, with greenhouse growing allowing production through winter.
• Spring onions are directly seeded into deep-bed systems, with nutrient solutions pumped from an underground tank and monitored daily.
• Harvesting vine-ripened tomatoes just minutes before serving delivers exceptional freshness and flavour.
• The freshly picked tomatoes are combined with basil, spring onions, extra virgin olive oil, salt and homemade cider vinegar to create a simple Italian tomato salad.