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Growing Oxheart Bi-Color Striped Slicer Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

The journey of growing tomatoes from seed is a rewarding process that begins with successful germination. Start by selecting high-quality tomato seeds. Begin the indoor seeding process 7-9 weeks before the last expected frost in your region. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix, placing the seeds at a depth of about 1/4 inch. Maintain consistent moisture and provide adequate light, either through natural sunlight or using artificial sources like grow lights.

As the tomato seedlings reach a height of approximately 2 inches and develop true leaves, it's time for their first transplant. Gently transfer each seedling into larger containers filled with nutrient-rich potting soil, fostering healthy root development. Choose containers with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Hardening off the tomato seedlings is a crucial step before transplanting them outdoors. Gradually expose the seedlings to outdoor conditions over a period of 7 to 10 days. Begin by placing them in a shaded and sheltered location for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their exposure to direct sunlight and wind. This process helps acclimate the seedlings to the outdoor environment, reducing the risk of transplant shock.

Once the threat of frost has passed, transplant the well-acclimated tomato plants into the garden. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil, adhering to the recommendations for proper spacing. Incorporate compost into the soil to enhance fertility, ensuring a pH range between 6.0 and 6.8. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

To promote vigorous growth, employ a balanced fertilization routine. Use a fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, or follow the recommendations on the fertilizer package. Apply fertilizers at appropriate intervals, typically every 2-3 weeks, during the growing season. This ensures a steady supply of nutrients for the developing plants.

Throughout the cultivation process, maintain a consistent watering schedule, keeping the soil consistently moist without becoming waterlogged. Stake or cage the tomato plants to provide support as they grow and produce fruit. Regularly monitor for pests and diseases, addressing issues promptly with natural remedies or organic pesticides. This comprehensive approach results in healthy, thriving tomato plants ready for a bountiful growing season.

Harvesting Oxheart Bi-Color Striped Tomatoes

Harvesting tomatoes is a delicate task that involves gently twisting or cutting the fruits from the plant while leaving a small stem attached. This careful approach minimizes stress on the plant and preserves the fruit's quality. Harvesting at peak ripeness ensures optimal flavor and texture for your culinary endeavors. For this indeterminate variety, continually check the plant for ripe fruits and harvest them as they set on to encourage more fruit production.

About Heirloom Oxheart Bi-Color Striped Tomato Garden Seeds

Oxheart Bi-Color Striped Tomatoes are a distinctive and visually appealing heirloom variety known for their large, heart-shaped fruits and vibrant coloring. These delicious fruits can weigh up to a pound or more.

Indeterminate tomatoes, unlike determinate varieties, require ongoing care due to their continuous growth. Provide sturdy support structures like stakes or cages to accommodate their height. Regularly prune indeterminate tomatoes by removing lower branches and suckers, directing energy toward fruit-bearing. Consistent watering, fertilizing, and monitoring for pests ensure healthy, productive indeterminate tomato plants throughout the growing season.

The name "Bi-Color Striped" stems from their visually appealing mix of pink, red, and yellow hues, forming distinctive stripes on the skin. The large size of these tomatoes makes them suitable for slicing, making them a perfect addition to sandwiches, salads, and other culinary creations.

Renowned for their rich and sweet flavor, these tomatoes offer a delightful taste that is both juicy and satisfying. Due to their large size and delicious flavor, these tomatoes are excellent for fresh eating, slicing onto sandwiches, or incorporating into salads.

Companion planting with tomatoes involves pairing them with plants that mutually benefit each other. For example, basil helps repel pests and enhances tomato flavor, while marigolds deter nematodes. Planting tomatoes alongside carrots and onions can also contribute to healthier growth, fostering a more resilient and diverse garden ecosystem.

As heirloom tomatoes, they often boast a history and lineage that adds to their allure, with seeds passed down through generations. Whether grown for their ornamental appeal or culinary versatility, these tomatoes contribute a unique and delightful aspect to the world of heirloom varieties.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"My favorite way to eat fresh tomatoes is on a BLT sandwich. Salt and pepper both sides of a large slice of tomato and add it between two slices of toasted wheat bread along with smoked, crispy bacon, fresh butterhead lettuce, and a nice slathering of a tangy mayo. My mouth is watering just writing this!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Oxheart Bi-Color Striped Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 300 mg packet - Approximately 65 Seeds
• .25 oz - Approximately 1,700 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 6,800 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 27,200 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 108,800 Seeds
• 5 lb - Approximately 544,000 Seeds

Non-GMO Oxheart Bi-Color Striped Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.