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Growing Oxheart Red Tomatoes in the Vegetable Garden

Growing tomatoes from seed is a rewarding process that begins with thoughtful planning and attention to key factors. The journey starts with obtaining high-quality tomato seeds from a reliable source, such as True Leaf Market. Initiate the indoor seeding process 7-9 weeks before the last expected frost in your region. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix, and plant the seeds at a depth of approximately 1/4 inch. Consistently maintain moisture levels and provide adequate light through natural sunlight or artificial sources like grow lights. Tomatoes thrive with a minimum of 12-16 hours of light per day during the germination stage.

As the tomato seedlings germinate, ensuring they receive sufficient light for healthy development is crucial. Rotate the seed trays regularly to prevent the seedlings from leaning toward the light source. Maintaining a warm and consistent temperature, ideally between 70-80°F (21-27°C), 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. Choose containers with proper drainage to prevent waterlogging. If space is a limitation, growing tomatoes in containers is a practical option. Select large containers, use quality potting mix, and transplant seedlings when they outgrow their initial containers. 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. Avoid planting tomatoes in the same location as the previous year. 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. Carefully navigating each stage of the growing process, from seed selection to transplanting and providing adequate light, ensures healthy tomato plants well-prepared for a bountiful growing season.

Monitor the plants for common tomato pests such as aphids, hornworms, and tomato fruitworms. Employ natural remedies or, if necessary, organic pesticides to manage pest issues. Be vigilant for signs of diseases like early blight or late blight, promptly removing any affected foliage to prevent the spread. Water consistently, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the plant bases to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Regularly fertilize with a balanced fertilizer, following recommended guidelines for optimal growth. Whether growing tomatoes in the ground or in containers, providing proper support structures is crucial. Stake or cage the plants to maintain structure, reduce the risk of diseases, and support growing fruit. Consider pruning the plants by removing lower branches or suckers, directing the plant's energy towards fruit-bearing branches for an enhanced yield.

Harvesting Oxheart Red 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 Oxheart Red Tomato Garden Seeds

Oxheart Red tomatoes are known for their unique heart-shaped appearance, which is wider at the top and tapers down to a point, resembling the shape of an ox's heart.These tomatoes are relatively large, with an average size ranging from 6 to 12 ounces, making them suitable for slicing or chopping in various culinary applications.

Like many other oxheart varieties, Oxheart Red tomatoes typically exhibit indeterminate growth, meaning they continue to produce fruit throughout the growing season until frost. The plants are known for their productivity, yielding a substantial harvest of these heart-shaped tomatoes under favorable growing conditions.

Oxheart Red tomatoes are praised for their rich, sweet, and juicy flavor. They often have a balanced acidity, making them versatile for both fresh consumption and cooking.

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.The tomatoes feature a vibrant red hue when fully ripened, adding visual appeal to salads, dishes, and gardens.

Oxheart Red tomatoes are often considered heirloom varieties, cherished for their unique characteristics and preserved over generations through open-pollination. These tomatoes are adaptable to various climates and growing conditions, making them suitable for home gardeners and farmers alike.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"A great way to grow tomatoes is in 5 gallon containers. This way you can move the plants without disturbing roots to ensure that they get as much sun as possible!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Resources

• Guide to Tomatoes

Oxheart Red 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

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