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Growing Beefsteak Pink Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

The Beefsteak Pink Tomato, with its robust flavor and sizable fruits, requires careful attention during the planting process. Begin by sowing the seeds indoors 7-9 weeks before the last spring frost date, as indicated by its 90-day maturity period from transplant. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 0.25 inches in well-draining, loose (sandy loam), slightly acidic (6.2 to 6.8), and moisture-retaining soil. Utilize individual pots or seed trays to provide ample space for each seedling's development. As an indeterminate variety, Beefsteak Pink tomatoes will sprawl and continue to grow throughout the season, necessitating staking or caging for support. When the seedlings have reached the appropriate size and the threat of frost has passed, typically when nighttime temperatures consistently stay in the upper 50s, transplant them into garden plots, raised beds, or greenhouses. Maintain a spacing of 24-36 inches between plants and 36 inches between rows to allow for healthy airflow and fruit development. Due to the large and heavy nature of the fruits, staking or caging is crucial to prevent contact with the ground.

For optimal growth, provide consistent watering to prevent issues like blossom end rot and fruit cracking. Pink Beefsteak tomatoes thrive in warm weather and are highly sensitive to frost, so ensure they are planted in an area with ample sunlight. Starting the seeds indoors allows for a head start, facilitating the plants' ability to mature within the recommended 90-day timeframe. Be attentive to soil conditions, maintaining a slightly acidic pH and avoiding excessive nitrogen, which can lead to more foliage production and less fruiting.

Harvesting Beefsteak Pink Tomatoes

The Beefsteak Pink Tomato, being an indeterminate variety, offers an extended harvest period, allowing for continual picking throughout the season. Knowing when to harvest involves monitoring the fruit's color and firmness. Once the tomatoes attain their characteristic pink hue and yield slightly to gentle pressure, they are ripe for picking. Indeterminate tomatoes like the Beefsteak Pink will keep producing until the end of the growing season. Harvesting is a delicate process; ripe tomatoes can be gently pulled from the vine by hand, while shears should be used for firmer ones to prevent damage to the plant.

About Beefsteak Pink Tomato Garden Seeds

The Beefsteak Pink Tomato traces its roots to Amish heirloom traditions. This variety has been cultivated and passed down through generations, embodying a rich history of agricultural practices. The Amish, known for their commitment to sustainable farming and preserving heirloom seeds, have contributed to the preservation and popularity of the Beefsteak Pink Tomato.

The Beefsteak Pink Tomato, as an heirloom variety, was not specifically bred for modern commercial traits but rather for its exceptional flavor, large size, and adaptability to various growing conditions. Its resilience and robust nature make it well-suited for diverse climates, thriving in warm conditions and performing best when started indoors to ensure a longer growing season.

Apart from its culinary uses, the Beefsteak Pink Tomato is also valued for its health benefits. Packed with essential vitamins and the antioxidant lycopene, it contributes to a nutrient-rich diet. This variety's meaty texture and intense flavor make it a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike, elevating the taste of salads, sandwiches, and various culinary creations.

While the Beefsteak Pink Tomato is generally cultivated in garden plots, raised beds, or greenhouses due to its sprawling indeterminate growth habit, it can be adapted for container gardening. When grown in large, sturdy containers with proper support, this variety can thrive on patios or balconies. However, hanging baskets may not provide sufficient support for the robust vines and heavy fruits, making them less suitable for this type of cultivation. Consider the space and support structures available when choosing the growing environment for the Beefsteak Pink Tomato.

Tips From Our Gardeners

”Pink Beefsteak tomatoes, renowned for their meaty, slightly sweet, and intense flavor, are versatile in the kitchen. Ideal for slicing in sandwiches and burgers, their size makes them a popular choice for soups and tomato sauce. These heirloom tomatoes offer significant health benefits, containing ample amounts of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin K, calcium, and the antioxidant lycopene, known for promoting heart and eye health."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Beefsteak Pink Tomato Seeds Per Package:

• 250 mg - Approximately 66 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Approximately 1,875 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 7,500 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 30,000 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 120,000 Seeds
• 5 lb - Approximately 600,000 Seeds

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