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Growing Kentucky Beefsteak Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To plant Kentucky Beefsteak Tomatoes, start indoors 7-9 weeks before the last spring frost date. Sow the seeds at a depth of 0.25 inches in well-draining, loose, and slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.2 to 6.8. Keep the soil consistently moist, and ensure a germination temperature between 65-85°F. Once germinated, allow the seedlings to grow indoors until they are strong and the risk of frost has passed. Transplant the robust seedlings into your garden plot, raised bed, or greenhouse, spacing them 24-36 inches apart with rows spaced 36 inches apart. As indeterminate tomatoes, Kentucky Beefsteak plants will continue to grow throughout the season, producing tomatoes continually. Provide support such as cages or trellises to help the vines sprawl and manage their height, which can reach up to 96 inches. Expect a harvest period of 75-115 days from transplant, with the tomatoes showcasing a sweet, fruity, and balanced flavor. The deep yellow-orange color and globe to oval shape, some with a pink tinge on the blossom end, make these tomatoes a delightful addition to salads or perfect for fresh eating and slicing.

For optimal growth of Kentucky Beefsteak Tomatoes, regular maintenance practices and strategic companionship can enhance their overall health and productivity. These indeterminate tomatoes benefit from consistent pruning to manage their sprawling vines, especially if space is limited. Stake or cage support is advisable to prevent the heavy fruits from touching the ground, reducing the risk of diseases and pests. Companion planting with basil can help repel certain tomato pests and improve the flavor of the tomatoes. Additionally, marigolds can act as a natural deterrent for nematodes. Adequate watering, preferably at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, coupled with well-draining soil, is crucial to prevent common issues like blossom end rot. Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Regularly monitor for pests and diseases, and consider organic neem-based products for treatment if needed. Consistent care and thoughtful companion planting contribute to a bountiful harvest of flavorful Kentucky Beefsteak Tomatoes.

Harvesting Kentucky Beefsteak Tomatoes

Harvesting Kentucky Beefsteak Tomatoes is a rewarding process that requires attention to ripeness indicators and an understanding of the plant's growth habits. As an indeterminate variety, these tomatoes continue to produce throughout the season, allowing for multiple harvests. To determine the right time for picking, observe the fruit's color and feel. Kentucky Beefsteak Tomatoes typically turn a vibrant yellow-orange when ripe, and the fruit should have a slight give when gently squeezed. Harvesting can be done by firmly grasping the tomato and twisting it gently until it separates from the vine, or by using pruning shears for a clean cut. Be cautious not to damage nearby developing fruits during the process. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more tomatoes, contributing to an extended and abundant yield. Keep an eye on your Kentucky Beefsteak Tomatoes, and enjoy the fruits of your labor throughout the growing season.

About Kentucky Beefsteak Tomato Garden Seeds

The Kentucky Beefsteak Tomato boasts a rich history rooted in the hills of eastern Kentucky. This heirloom variety has been passed down through generations, celebrated for its large, globe to oval-shaped fruits with a striking deep yellow-orange color. Originally cultivated for its sweet, fruity, and balanced flavor, the tomato became a staple in local gardens for its impressive size and exceptional taste. While the specific breeding details are often anecdotal due to its heirloom status, the variety has likely adapted over time to the growing conditions of the region, making it well-suited for the local climate.

This tomato is not only a culinary delight but also offers intriguing features. Some fruits may exhibit a pink tinge on the blossom end, adding visual interest to its vibrant color palette. The Kentucky Beefsteak Tomato's thin skin and meaty flesh make it an excellent choice for slicing and enjoying fresh in salads or sandwiches, while its robust flavor enhances culinary creations like baked dishes.

When it comes to cultivation, Kentucky Beefsteak Tomatoes thrive in garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses, making them versatile for various growing environments. While they are not specifically designated for container gardens or hanging baskets due to their indeterminate growth habit and substantial size, with proper support like stakes or cages, they can still be grown successfully in large containers or pots on patios or balconies. Consider providing adequate support to the plants as they develop, ensuring a bountiful harvest of these delectable tomatoes.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"For an extra burst of flavor and enhanced sweetness in your Kentucky Beefsteak Tomatoes, try incorporating a foliar feeding routine using a diluted organic compost tea. As the plants develop and set fruit, gently spray the foliage with the compost tea solution. This method allows the plants to absorb nutrients directly through their leaves, promoting robust growth and intensifying the tomato's natural sugars. Performing this foliar feeding during the flowering and fruit-setting stages can contribute to a more flavorful and satisfying harvest. Additionally, it provides a nutrient boost, supporting the overall health and vitality of the Kentucky Beefsteak Tomato plants. Remember to use a well-balanced and organic compost tea to maintain the integrity of your heirloom crop."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Kentucky Beefsteak Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 300 mg packet - Approximately 65 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Approximately 1,700 Seeds
• 1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 6,800 Seeds
• 4 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 27,200 Seeds
• 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 108,800 Seeds

Non-GMO Kentucky Beefsteak Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.