When to Plant (Indoors):
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your average last frost date. Beefsteak tomatoes have a long growing season, so an early start is critical.
Direct sowing outdoors is not recommended in most climates, as the season will be too short.
When to Plant (Outdoors):
Transplant seedlings outdoors 1-2 weeks after all danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures stay reliably above 50-55 degrees F.
Where to Plant:
Sunlight: Full, direct sun is essential. Tomatoes require at least 6-8 hours of direct sun per day for the best fruit production.
Soil: Plant in rich, fertile, well-drained soil. Tomatoes are heavy feeders; generously amend your soil with aged compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
Rotation: Do not plant tomatoes where tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, or potatoes have grown for the past 2-3 years to prevent soil-borne diseases.
How to Plant (Seed Starting):
Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in a sterile seed-starting mix.
Warmth: Use a seedling heat mat to maintain a soil temperature of 70-85 degrees F for the fastest germination (5-10 days).
Light: As soon as seedlings sprout, place them under strong grow lights or in a very sunny south-facing window.
Potting Up: When seedlings develop two sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger 4-inch pots to give their roots room to grow.
How to Plant (Transplanting):
Harden Off: Before planting outdoors, you must "harden off" your seedlings for 7-10 days. Gradually expose them to outdoor sun and wind, starting with an hour in a shady spot and increasing the time each day.
Install Support: Install your tall, strong stakes or cages at the time of planting to avoid damaging the roots later. Indeterminate beefsteaks easily grow 6-8 feet tall.
Plant Deep: This is the most important step! Bury the tomato stem deep, leaving only the top 2-3 sets of leaves exposed. The buried portion of the stem will sprout new roots, creating a much stronger, more resilient plant.
Spacing: Space plants 24-36 inches apart to allow for good airflow.
Growing and Care:
Watering: Water deeply and consistently, aiming for 1-2 inches per week. Water at the base of the plant (a soaker hose is ideal) and avoid wetting the leaves. Irregular watering can lead to fruit cracking or blossom end rot.
Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (like straw or shredded leaves) after the soil has warmed. This retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and prevents soil-borne diseases from splashing onto the leaves.
Fertilizing: Feed your plants regularly. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at planting time. Once fruit begins to set, switch to a fertilizer formulated for tomatoes (higher in phosphorus and potassium) every 3-4 weeks.
Pruning: To improve airflow and focus the plant's energy, many gardeners prune the "suckers" (the small shoots that form in the "V" between the main stem and a leaf branch).
