From tiny clusters of cherry tomatoes to gigantic heirloom varieties, tomatoes grow abundantly in Los Angeles, year-round if you plant winter-fruiting varieties.

Support your plants well with cages, poles or bamboo towers, grow them in compost-rich soil, water them deeply and regularly, but not too often. Keep their roots mulched, watch for pests, and pinch back or prune vines to control growth.

Too many tomatoes to eat? Simply freeze whole tomatoes for cooking later, and/or for Frozen Bloody Marys.