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Growing Oxheart Pink Slicer Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

Growing tomatoes from seed is a fulfilling and rewarding process that requires attention to various critical factors. The journey begins with obtaining high-quality tomato seeds. To kickstart the indoor seeding process, initiate it 7-9 weeks before the last expected frost in your region. Utilize a well-draining seed-starting mix and plant the seeds at a depth of approximately .25 inches. Consistently maintain moisture levels and provide adequate light through natural sunlight or artificial sources like grow lights.

As the tomato seedlings germinate, it's crucial to ensure they receive sufficient light for healthy development. Aim for a minimum of 12-16 hours of light per day, and rotate the seed trays regularly to prevent the seedlings from leaning toward the light source. Maintaining a warm and consistent temperature supports optimal growth during this early stage.When the seedlings reach a height of around 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. Select containers with proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Growing tomatoes in containers is a versatile option, ideal for those with limited space. Choose large containers with good drainage, fill them with quality potting mix, and transplant the seedlings when they outgrow their initial containers. Ensure the containers receive ample sunlight, and provide support structures such as stakes or cages as the plants mature.

Before planting, test the soil for pH and nutrient levels to create optimal growing conditions for tomatoes. They generally prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 6.8. Additionally, implementing a crop rotation strategy is essential to prevent soil-borne diseases, so avoid planting tomatoes in the same location as the previous year. Don't forget to harden off the seedlings before transplanting them into the garden to acclimate them to outdoor conditions gradually. This process helps reduce the risk of transplant shock and ensures a smooth transition for your tomatoes.

Tomatoes are sunlight-loving plants, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If growing indoors, position them near a south-facing window or supplement with artificial grow lights. By carefully navigating each stage of the growing process, from seed selection to transplanting and providing adequate light, you can cultivate healthy tomato plants well-prepared for a bountiful growing season. Regular monitoring and adjustments based on the plant's needs contribute to successful tomato cultivation from seed to mature plants.

Harvesting Oxheart Pink Tomatoes

Harvest tomatoes when they reach their mature color, firmness, and size. Gently twist or cut them from the vine, leaving the calyx attached. If a frost is predicted, harvest all mature and semi-mature fruits. For green tomatoes, place them indoors to ripen. Proper harvesting preserves the quality of tomatoes, ensuring a flavorful and abundant harvest.

About Heirloom Oxheart Pink Tomato Garden Seeds

This seed has been an heirloom variety since the 1920s. Oxheart tomatoes are large, usually the fruits get to 1 or 2 pounds. Oxheart tomatoes have a unique shape, like a pear, or heart, but pointed at the top.

Indeterminate tomato plants are characterized by continuous growth and fruit production throughout the growing season. Their vines keep extending, requiring staking or support. This trait leads to an extended harvest, making indeterminate varieties a preferred choice for gardeners seeking a prolonged and abundant yield from a single plant.

Oxheart Pink, Oxheart Orange, and Oxheart Red tomatoes belong to the same Oxheart tomato family, known for their distinctive heart-shaped fruits. While sharing a common shape, each variety exhibits unique characteristics in terms of color and flavor. Oxheart Pink tomatoes display a rosy pink hue, offering a sweet and mildly tangy taste. Oxheart Orange tomatoes, as the name suggests, boast a vibrant orange color and deliver a rich, sweet flavor. Oxheart Red tomatoes, on the other hand, present a classic red color, combining a well-balanced sweetness with a hint of acidity. Despite their common shape, the differences in color and flavor make each Oxheart variety a unique and delightful addition to the garden and kitchen.

Oxheart tomatoes, with their rich and sweet flavor, are perfect for enhancing salads, salsas, sauces, and sandwiches. Their meaty texture and vibrant color elevate a variety of culinary creations.

They are usually a bright red/pink color, with tinges of orange. The flavor is rich, and meaty, with not too many seeds. Start tomato seeds inside for best growth. Transplant outside in the spring when the danger of frost is past. Make sure tomatoes get full sun and plenty of water.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"My favorite way to eat tomatoes is on a BLT sandwich. To make a classic BLT, toast bread slices, spread mayonnaise, add crispy bacon, layer with fresh lettuce leaves, and top with ripe tomato slices. Assemble the ingredients into a delicious sandwich for a perfect combination of flavors and textures."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Oxheart Pink Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 300 mg packet - Approximately 70 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 Oxheart Pink Tomato seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.