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Growing Beefsteak Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

To grow Beefsteak tomatoes, begin by starting the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the final spring frost. Plant 2-3 seeds per cell at a depth of 1/4 inch in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. The seeds typically germinate in 5-14 days. Once the seedlings have developed, transplant the best starts, leaving one per pot or spacing them 18-36 inches apart in the garden. Consider container gardening as an ideal option for growing Beefsteak tomatoes. Before sowing, identify whether the seeds are determinate or indeterminate. Beefsteak is an indeterminate tomato variety, meaning it continues to grow throughout the season and requires sturdy support. Use sturdy stakes and tie the tomato vines with strips of old sheets, as taught by traditional gardening wisdom. This method prevents the stems from being cut into by strings, and it provides essential support for the vigorous growth of Beefsteak tomatoes.

Cultivating thriving Beefsteak tomatoes demands careful attention to maintenance and specialized growing tips. It is imperative to provide robust support for the vigorous, indeterminate vines by staking them securely and using strips of old sheets for gentle tying to prevent stem damage. Regular pruning, focusing on the removal of suckers, enhances fruit production and reduces the risk of diseases. Consistent and targeted watering at the plant's base, preferably in the morning, helps maintain optimal moisture levels and prevents foliage diseases. Companion planting with basil, parsley, and marigolds can deter pests and enhance the tomatoes' flavor. Applying organic mulch aids in moisture retention, weed suppression, and temperature regulation. Using a balanced fertilizer with slightly higher phosphorus and potassium content encourages flowering and fruit development, while avoiding excessive nitrogen. Harvesting should be done when tomatoes exhibit their full color and a gentle give upon squeezing, usually around 90 days from transplanting for Beefsteak tomatoes, ensuring a continuous, bountiful yield throughout the growing season.

Harvesting Beefsteak Tomatoes

Determining the ideal time to harvest involves observing the tomatoes for their vibrant red color, glossy appearance, and a slight give when gently squeezed. Beefsteak tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season. This characteristic allows for a prolonged harvesting window. Ripe tomatoes can be plucked by hand, or for more firm ones, pruning shears can be used. Regular harvesting, ideally when the fruits are fully mature but still firm, encourages the plant to redirect energy to developing new fruit, ensuring a continuous supply of these large and flavorful tomatoes.

About Beefsteak Tomato Garden Seeds

The Beefsteak tomato has a rich history as one of the most iconic and widely cultivated heirloom varieties. Originating from the rugged terrain of the Andes in South America, tomatoes, including Beefsteak, were brought to Europe in the 16th century. Renowned for its luscious flavor and substantial size, Beefsteak tomatoes gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century. This variety was not specifically bred for a particular trait or growing climate but evolved through generations of cultivation, resulting in the development of its distinctive characteristics.

Beefsteak tomatoes are celebrated for their juicy, sweet, and savory flavor with a moderate level of acidity, making them a favorite for a wide range of culinary uses. Their large size, often exceeding a pound per fruit, has made them a parent crop for numerous other beloved heirloom varieties, such as Brandywine and Cherokee Purple.

While Beefsteak tomatoes thrive in garden plots and raised beds, they are not typically recommended for container gardens or hanging baskets due to their vigorous and sprawling growth habit. These plants require sturdy support, such as stakes or cages, to manage their size and weight effectively.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Try tying the plants using strips of old sheets. This method, passed down through generations, helps support the vigorous vines, preventing them from sagging under the weight of the large and abundant fruits. Using sturdy stakes and strips for support is a traditional and effective approach to maintain the integrity of the Beefsteak tomato plant throughout its growing season."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Beefsteak Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 500 mg packet - Approximately 175 Seeds
• 1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 10,000 Seeds
• 4 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 40,000 Seeds
• 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 160,000 Seeds
• 5 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 800,000 Seeds

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