By Alejandrina Avila, March 18, 2025
The Cal Poly Pomona Farm Store hosted its annual Tomatozania event March 15, a tradition that brings plant science enthusiasts, students, faculty and community members together to celebrate tomatoes and horticulture.
The event featured a diverse selection of tomato plants, including rare and heirloom varieties not usually found in big-box stores. The event, which is hosted by Cal Poly Pomona nursery, provides hands-on learning opportunities for plant science and biology students who take the lead in growing, marketing and selling plants.
For students involved, at the event share that its more than just a sale- it’s an opportunity to learn hands on skills in a fast paced, real-world environment.
“It is a fun time,” said Ewing Castillo a plant science master’s student. “It is probably one of the busiest times of the year we have. Everything is blooming. It is a fun event. It can get chaotic, but worth it.”
Beyond the academic benefits, Tomatozania has also become a community gathering where gardening enthusiasts share tips, traditions and their love for sustainable growing practices.
Greenhouse manager Kelsey Swayze, who oversee the event for a decade said that Tomatozania fosters community engagement, that is lively and welcoming.
“I love seeing our customers out there, talking and chatting about tomatoes- what works for their growth and what they are planning to grow this year Swayze said.
This year’s sale featured a wide variety of tomato plants, including unique heirloom options such as Woolly Kate and Yellow Brandywine. Varieties rarely found in commercial nurseries.
For some attendees, Tomatozania is an annual tradition Monica Santander, a CPP alum and a science teacher who said she appreciates the university’s hands on-programs. As a returning customer at Tomatozania, she and her partner stocked up on plants at the event.
“Last year, my partner and I went all out and got 48 tomato plants,” Santander said. “They turned out amazing, so we are back again for 35 more.”
Santander also highlighted the value of the importance of student -run initiatives, as the funding directly benefits academic programs, creating a full-circle moment for those involved.
For more information regarding Tomatozania and similar events like the upcoming Pepperzania plant sale returning April 19, visit the Cal Poly Pomona Nursery.
Featured image courtesy of Elizabeth Teo
