Beefsteak tomatoes are a classic heirloom variety, known for their large, red, and juicy fruits that can weigh over a pound. With a meaty texture and robust flavor, these indeterminate plants are ideal for slicing, sandwiches, and fresh eating. Beefsteak tomatoes are disease resistant, making them a reliable choice for home gardens.
Tomato Seed Growing Guide
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start tomato seeds indoors 6â€"8 weeks before the last expected frost date.
- Containers: Use seed trays, small pots, or cell packs with good drainage for initial germination.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, placing 1â€"2 seeds per cell or pot.
- Cover lightly with soil mix and water gently to ensure even moisture.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 70â€"75°F for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 5â€"10 days.
- Thinning: Thin to one plant per cell or pot after seedlings develop their first true leaves to give each plant space to grow.
- Transplanting Outdoors: Transplant seedlings outdoors once the soil temperature is consistently above 60°F and all risk of frost has passed. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7â€"10 days. Space plants 18â€"24 inches apart for determinate varieties and 24â€"36 inches apart for indeterminate varieties.
General Care Tips for Tomatoes
- Sunlight: Provide full sun with at least 6â€"8 hours of direct sunlight daily once transplanted outdoors; more sun promotes better growth and fruiting.
- Watering: Water deeply and consistently, aiming to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds.
- Fertilizing: Tomatoes are heavy feeders. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress with a low-nitrogen fertilizer when plants begin to flower and set fruit.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. Mulching helps control weed growth and maintain soil moisture.
- Supporting Indeterminate Tomatoes: Indeterminate varieties require staking, cages, or trellises for vertical growth, improving air circulation and ease of harvesting.
