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Growing Flame Beefsteak Organic Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To ensure a harvest that doesn’t come too late, it is best to start tomato seedlings indoors about eight weeks before the final frost of spring. Using a seed starting tray with 27-36 cells, plant 2-3 seeds per cell a quarter inch deep in well-draining soil. Pre-moistened coco coir, potting soil, or a germination mix is best. Water the seeds deeply and keep them moist. Germination will happen between 7 and 10 days at 70-80F. Germination at lower temperatures will take longer, and some seeds may not germinate. As soon as the seedlings break the soil surface, ensure that they begin receiving a minimum of 8 hours of bright sunlight per day and 8 hours of darkness at night. Once all the seedlings have emerged, thin each cell to only have a single strong seedling. Fertilize once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves.

Beginning at least two weeks before the expected transplant date, harden off the seedlings to acclimate them to the new environment. Do this by placing the seedlings outside for gradually more time each day. At first, shelter them from any cool weather or strong winds. Slowly expose them to these factors. The plants can be transplanted into the garden once temperatures remain above 65F. Choose a place in the garden that will receive a minimum of 8 hours of direct sunlight, has well-draining, slightly acidic soil, and is sheltered from cold weather and high winds.

Prepare the soil by mixing compost with the existing soil and making deep holes where plants will be placed. Follow the spacing guidelines provided. Optionally, put a calcium powder at the bottom of each hole to prevent Blossom End Rot. Remove the bottom two-thirds of leaves on each plant and bury them up to the remaining leaves. Burying them this deep is optional, but it encourages lots of root development and, therefore, a more tolerant plant. Water them immediately after planting. Fertilize soon after transplantation and ensure they receive regular, deep waterings.

While the plants are growing, they should be pruned periodically to remove suckers and bottom leaves. They should have some type of structural support, such as a tomato cage, trellis, or garden twine, to allow their vines to grow upwards and not lie on the soil. Fertilize at least once more in the middle of the growing season with compost tea or organic fertilizer. Well-decomposed compost or worm castings are also great options for tomato fertilizer.

If your plants struggle to grow, it could be various things. First, check that they are receiving sufficient light. Then, amend your watering practices to be more consistent while allowing them to dry between waterings lightly. Next, check for pests or diseases. Check out our IPM blog for more information on pest management. Avoid splashing water on the leaves, and try to water in the mornings to avoid unnecessary evaporation. Lastly, evaluate your fertilization efforts and make them more consistent or effective.

Harvesting Flame Organic Tomatoes

This indeterminate variety of tomatoes will produce fruit throughout the season and does not have just one harvest period. Pick the tomatoes as they ripen. Flame tomatoes will be firm, shiny, and golden red at peak ripeness. Picking the tomatoes promptly will prevent overburdening the plant and encourage more fruit production. A ripe tomato will usually twist off the plant easily, but clippers can be used to cut the fruit off if this is not the case. Before the first hard frost of fall is predicted, harvest all the fruit on the plant regardless of ripeness and continue ripening them indoors.

About Flame Organic Tomato Garden Seeds

Flame Tomatoes are multifaceted in the kitchen. Due to their medium size, Flame Tomatoes are just right for various purposes. They can be sliced and enjoyed on a sandwich. Try it on a BLT at peak season. Flame tomatoes also work well in sauces or canned. This tomato variety also works well in a salad.

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, vitamin C, folate, and vitamin K. The heirloom Flame tomato originated in West Virginia in the 1880s.

The Flame tomato is a low acidity variety that grows on a compact and productive plant ideal for the home garden. The rose-gold flesh has a rich and tangy flavor. It is crack-resistant and stunning when sliced.

Plant tomatoes near asparagus, peppers, onions, cucumbers, basil, and marigold flowers for beneficial companions. Tomato fruits are best stored at 50-60 F if possible and will keep longer if they are not touching each other.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Organic Flame is an interesting low-acidity heirloom beefsteak variety that is sure to offer the familiar tomato taste you love with the perfect spice of variety. Try something new this year! You won’t be disappointed."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Organic Flame Slicer Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 300 mg packet - Approximately 72 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

Non-GMO Flame Slicer Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.