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Solanum lycopersicum Beefsteak Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum Beefsteak Tomato is a vigorous, indeterminate heirloom variety, valued for its massive, ribbed fruits and rich, meaty texture. Growing to about 6 to 8 feet tall with a spread of 18 to 24 inches, this variety is the crown jewel of vegetable gardens, raised beds, and large container plantings where high yields of giant slicers are desired. Unlike modern supermarket hybrids, the Beefsteak offers an old-fashioned, complex flavor profile—balancing sweetness with acidity—and produces fruits that can weigh up to two pounds, providing a substantial harvest throughout the summer until the first frost.
Culinary and Practical Uses
- The dense, meaty flesh and minimal seed cavities make this the ultimate "sandwich tomato," perfect for slicing thick onto burgers, BLTs, and deli platters.
- Its robust flavor holds up well in cooking, making it an excellent choice for chunky fresh salsas, rich pasta sauces, and canning.
- Ideally enjoyed fresh from the vine with a pinch of sea salt and olive oil to highlight its classic, garden-fresh taste.
Characteristics
- Foliage: Large, aromatic, deep green lobed leaves that provide ample shade to prevent sunscald on the developing fruit; the vines are vigorous and require strong support.
- Growth Habit: Indeterminate vining habit that continues to grow and produce fruit all season long; requires sturdy cages or trellising to support the heavy crop load.
- Flowers: Produces clusters of small, star-shaped bright yellow blossoms that are self-fertile and rely on wind or vibration for pollination.
- Seeds: Flat, beige seeds enclosed in a gel coating within the fruit’s locules; easily harvested and fermented for seed saving (as this is an open-pollinated heirloom).
Growing Requirements
- Sun: Thrives in full sun; vigorous growth and fruit ripening require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil: Adapts to most soil types but prefers fertile, well-draining, slightly acidic soil enriched with compost and calcium to prevent blossom end rot.
- Water: Requires consistent, deep watering; uneven moisture can lead to cracking or splitting, so drip irrigation or mulching is highly recommended.
- Spacing: Plant seeds or transplants 24 to 36 inches apart to allow for vigorous vegetative growth and necessary airflow between vines.
- Maintenance: Prune "suckers" (side shoots) regularly to direct energy into fruit production and improve air circulation; feed heavily with tomato fertilizer once fruit sets.
Shipping Info
Beefsteak Tomato seeds ship as fresh, high-quality, viable seeds that are carefully packaged for stability and protection from damage during transit. Prompt shipping supports reliable germination and seasonally appropriate planting.
Growing Zones
3a - 10b
Low Temperature
33°F
High Temperature
85°F
Fragrant
Yes
Polinator Required
No
Polinator Friendly
Yes
Flower Color
Green Red Yellow
Growth Rate
Fast
Soil
Rich, fertile, well-draining loam
Moisture
Moderate
Sun Exposure
Full sun
Mature Spread
18 – 24 inches
Mature Height
6 – 8 feet
Bloom Period
Summer
Pruning Time
Throughout Growing Season
Pet Safe
No
Perennial / Annual
Annual
Evergreen / Deciduous
Deciduous
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