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Tomato Growing

Grow Giant Beefmaster Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory September 29, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Growing Beefmaster Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

If you’re looking to grow monster beefsteak tomatoes, look no further than Beefmaster tomatoes. These hybrid plants produce massive tomatoes, some weighing up to a whopping 2 pounds! They’re also prolific producers and resistant to common tomato diseases. Read on to discover everything you need to know about growing Beefmaster tomatoes.

Beefmaster Tomato Characteristics

Beefmaster tomatoes are a type of hybrid tomato, meaning they’re created by crossbreeding two different tomato varieties to produce specific traits. In the case of Beefmaster tomatoes, they were bred to produce larger, meatier, and more disease-resistant tomatoes.

These tomatoes are categorized as F1 hybrids, which means they’re first-generation hybrids. This means that the first generation of Beefmaster tomatoes will have the best vigor and produce the largest yields. However, if you save seeds from these tomatoes and plant them the following year, the resulting fruit will likely be different from the previous year’s crop.

Beefmaster tomato plants are indeterminate, meaning they have a vining growth habit. This means they’ll keep growing vertically throughout the season and require staking or pruning to support their weight.

Disease Resistance

Beefmaster tomatoes are resistant to several common tomato diseases, including:

Verticillium wilt
Fusarium wilt
Root knot nematodes

They also have a good tolerance to cracking and splitting, which can be a problem for other tomato varieties.

Growing Beefmaster Tomatoes

Growing Beefmaster tomatoes is relatively easy, and you can start them from seed or purchase seedlings from a nursery.

Starting from Seed:

Start seeds indoors 5-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area.
Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in a seed starting mix.
Keep the soil moist and warm (70-80°F).
Once seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots.

Transplanting Seedlings:

Transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
Space seedlings 2-2 1/2 feet apart in well-drained soil.
Water deeply after transplanting.

Growing Conditions:

Beefmaster tomatoes prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
They require regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Stake or prune plants to support their growth.

Harvesting Beefmaster Tomatoes:

Beefmaster tomatoes typically ripen 80 days after transplanting.
Harvest tomatoes when they are fully red and slightly soft to the touch.
Cut tomatoes from the vine with a sharp knife.

Tips for Success:

Protect plants from cold temperatures by covering them with row covers or plastic sheeting.
Rotate tomato crops each year to prevent soil-borne diseases.
Water plants at the base to avoid getting water on the leaves.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Conclusion

Growing Beefmaster tomatoes is a rewarding experience that can provide you with a bountiful harvest of delicious, giant tomatoes. By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown Beefmaster tomatoes all season long.

Tomato Growing

Growing Black Krim Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory April 21, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Growing Black Krim Tomatoes: A Guide for Beginners

Black Krim tomatoes are a unique and flavorful variety of tomato that is popular among gardeners. They are known for their large size, deep reddish-purple skin, and rich, sweet flavor. If you’re interested in growing Black Krim tomatoes in your garden, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.

Black Krim Tomato Facts

Black Krim tomatoes are also known as Black Crimea. They are native to Russia and are considered heirloom tomatoes, meaning that their seeds have been passed down from generation to generation. Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated, which means that they are pollinated naturally by insects or the wind. This is in contrast to hybrid tomatoes, which are created by cross-pollinating two different varieties of tomatoes.

How to Grow Black Krim Tomatoes

Starting Seeds Indoors

To start Black Krim tomato seeds indoors, you will need to purchase seeds from a nursery or online retailer. Sow the seeds in a seed starting mix and keep them warm and moist. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots.

Transplanting Outdoors

When the seedlings are about 6 weeks old and all danger of frost has passed, you can transplant them outdoors. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the seedling in the hole and fill in the soil around it, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the seedling deeply.

Supporting Your Plants

Black Krim tomato plants are indeterminate, which means that they will continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season. To support the plants, you will need to install a trellis, stakes, or tomato cage.

Black Krim Tomato Care

Watering

Black Krim tomato plants need about 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Water at the base of the plant, using a drip irrigation system or a garden hose. Avoid getting the leaves wet, as this can promote disease.

Fertilizing

Fertilize Black Krim tomato plants every four to eight weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label carefully.

Mulching

A layer of mulch around your tomato plants will help to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use shredded leaves, straw, or compost as mulch.

Troubleshooting

Blossom Rot

Blossom rot is a common problem with tomatoes, including Black Krim tomatoes. It is caused by a calcium deficiency. To prevent blossom rot, make sure to water your plants regularly and fertilize them with a calcium-rich fertilizer.

Cracked Fruit

Cracked fruit is another common problem with tomatoes. It is caused by uneven watering. To prevent cracked fruit, water your plants regularly and deeply.

Harvesting Black Krim Tomatoes

Black Krim tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are fully ripe and have developed a deep reddish-purple color. To harvest tomatoes, gently twist them off the vine. Avoid pulling on the stems, as this can damage the plant.

Conclusion

Growing Black Krim tomatoes is a rewarding experience. By following the tips in this guide, you can grow healthy, productive plants that will produce delicious, flavorful tomatoes all season long.

Tomato Growing

How to Grow and Care for Roma Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide

by Donna January 30, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

How to Grow and Care for Roma Tomatoes

What are Roma Tomatoes?

Roma tomatoes are a type of tomato that is known for its small, plum-shaped fruit. They have fewer seeds than most tomato varieties, making them ideal for making sauces, ketchup, and preserving. Roma tomatoes are also great for eating fresh.

How to Grow Roma Tomatoes

You can grow Roma tomatoes from seed or buy ready-grown plants. If you start from seed, sow them indoors in late winter or early spring. Once the seedlings have germinated, transplant them into individual pots and grow them in a warm, well-lit place.

When the weather warms up, you can transplant the tomato plants outdoors. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Plant the tomatoes deeply, burying the stem up to the first set of leaves.

How to Care for Roma Tomatoes

Water your Roma tomatoes regularly, especially during hot weather. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilize your Roma tomatoes every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Prune your Roma tomato plants regularly to remove any suckers that grow from the main stem. This will help the plants to focus their energy on producing fruit.

How to Harvest Roma Tomatoes

Roma tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are fully red and slightly soft to the touch. Gently twist the tomatoes from the vine, taking care not to damage the plants.

Troubleshooting

Blossom end rot: This is a common problem in Roma tomatoes that is caused by a calcium deficiency. To prevent blossom end rot, make sure your plants are getting enough water and calcium.
Pests and diseases: Roma tomatoes are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, whiteflies, and late blight. To prevent pests and diseases, keep your plants healthy and free of weeds.

Where to Buy Roma Tomatoes

You can buy Roma tomato seeds or plants from most garden centers and online retailers. You can also find Roma tomatoes at farmers markets and grocery stores.

Tomato Growing

Sunmaster Tomato Plants: A Comprehensive Guide for Hot Climates

by Gregory January 10, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Sunmaster Tomato Plants: A Guide for Hot Climates

About Sunmaster Tomatoes

Sunmaster tomato plants are specially bred to thrive in hot climates with warm days and nights. These super-hardy plants produce large, globe-shaped tomatoes that are juicy, sweet, and flavorful, even when temperatures soar above 90°F (32°C). Sunmaster tomatoes are also resistant to common tomato diseases like fusarium wilt and verticillium wilt, making them a great choice for gardeners in hot climates.

How to Grow Sunmaster Tomatoes

To grow healthy and productive Sunmaster tomato plants, follow these tips:

Sunlight: Sunmaster tomato plants need at least six to eight hours of sunlight per day. However, they can tolerate a little shade in the hottest part of the afternoon.

Soil: Sunmaster tomato plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend your soil with compost or manure before planting.

Planting: Plant Sunmaster tomato seedlings 2 to 3 feet apart in rows that are 4 to 5 feet apart. Dig a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the entire root ball, and gently firm the soil around the plant. Water deeply after planting.

Mulching: Mulching around Sunmaster tomato plants is essential for conserving moisture, deterring weeds, and preventing water from splashing on the leaves. Use a generous layer of organic mulch, such as bark, straw, or pine needles. Replenish the mulch as it decomposes or blows away.

Watering: Water Sunmaster tomato plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather. Use a soaker hose or drip system to water at the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering. Water deeply enough to moisten the soil to a depth of 2 inches (5 cm).

Fertilizing: Fertilize Sunmaster tomato plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during extremely hot weather, as too much fertilizer can weaken the plants and make them more susceptible to pests and diseases.

Pruning: Avoid pruning Sunmaster and other determinate tomato varieties. Pruning can reduce the size of the harvest.

Harvesting: Harvest Sunmaster tomatoes when they are fully ripe and have developed a deep red color. If the weather is hot at harvest time, pick the tomatoes slightly unripe and place them in a shady spot to ripen.

Troubleshooting Common Sunmaster Tomato Problems

Blossom-End Rot: Blossom-end rot is a common problem in tomatoes that can be caused by a calcium deficiency. To prevent blossom-end rot, make sure to water your tomato plants regularly and fertilize them with a calcium-rich fertilizer.

Splitting: Splitting is another common problem in tomatoes that can be caused by irregular watering or excessive watering. To prevent splitting, water your tomato plants deeply and regularly, and avoid overwatering.

Diseases: Sunmaster tomato plants are resistant to many common tomato diseases, but they can still be susceptible to some diseases, such as early blight and septoria leaf spot. To prevent tomato diseases, keep your plants clean and free of debris, and rotate your tomato crops each year.

Additional Tips for Growing Sunmaster Tomatoes in Hot Climates

Choose a planting site that receives full sun for at least six hours per day.
Plant your tomato seedlings deeply, burying the stem up to the first set of leaves.
Water your tomato plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather.
Mulch around your tomato plants to conserve moisture and deter weeds.
Fertilize your tomato plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Avoid pruning Sunmaster and other determinate tomato varieties.
Harvest your tomatoes when they are fully ripe and have developed a deep red color.

Tomato Growing

Cracked Tomatoes: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions for a Bountiful Harvest

by Donna January 10, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Tomatoes: A Common Garden Problem Solved

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable grown in many gardens, but they can be prone to problems, including cracked tomatoes on the vine. This article will explore the causes of cracked tomatoes, whether they are safe to eat, and how to prevent and deal with this issue.

Causes of Cracked Tomatoes

Cracked tomatoes are usually caused by water fluctuations. When the tomato plant experiences a period of drought followed by a sudden downpour, the rapid growth of the tomato’s interior can cause the skin to crack. This can also occur if the gardener neglects to water the plant regularly and then overwaters it.

There are two main types of cracking:

Concentric cracks: These appear as rings around the stem end of the tomato. They are usually shallow and often heal themselves.
Radial cracks: These run the length of the tomato from the stem down the sides. They are usually deeper and can split the fruit open.

Are Cracked Tomatoes Safe to Eat?

Concentric cracks are generally safe to eat, as they are usually shallow and heal quickly. However, radial cracks can be deeper and may allow insects, fungi, or bacteria to enter the fruit. If the cracked tomato shows signs of infestation or infection, it is best to discard it.

Otherwise, cracked tomatoes are safe to eat, especially if you cut out the area surrounding the crack. It is best to eat cracked tomatoes right away rather than storing them, as the cracking may worsen over time.

Preventing Cracked Tomatoes

The best way to prevent cracked tomatoes is to water the plants regularly, especially during periods of drought. Avoid overwatering, as this can also lead to cracking.

Other tips for preventing cracked tomatoes include:

Choose tomato varieties that are less prone to cracking.
Plant tomatoes in well-drained soil.
Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture.
Avoid fertilizing the plants too heavily, as this can promote excessive growth and cracking.

Dealing with Cracked Tomatoes

If you find cracked tomatoes on your plants, there are a few things you can do:

Harvest the tomatoes: If the cracks are severe, it is best to harvest the tomatoes and use them right away.
Cut out the cracked area: If the cracks are minor, you can cut out the affected area and eat the rest of the tomato.
Let the tomatoes ripen off the vine: If the cracks are just beginning to show, you can harvest the tomatoes and let them finish ripening on a windowsill or counter. This will prevent further cracking.

Conclusion

Cracked tomatoes are a common problem, but they can be prevented and dealt with. By understanding the causes of cracking and following the tips in this article, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes.

Tomato Growing

Growing Sweet 100 Cherry Tomatoes: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners to Experts

by Gregory July 8, 2022

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Growing Sweet 100 Cherry Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

As a tomato enthusiast, I’m always eager to experiment with different varieties. Among my favorites are Sweet 100 cherry tomatoes, known for their exceptional sweetness and versatility. In this guide, I’ll share my tips and tricks for growing these delicious treats in your own garden.

About Sweet 100 Cherry Tomatoes

Sweet 100 cherry tomatoes are produced on indeterminate vining plants that can reach heights of 4-8 feet. Their name reflects the high yields they produce, with up to 100 cherry tomatoes per cluster of fruit. These tomatoes are indeed sweet, earning them the nickname “vine candy.” They’re perfect for snacking or adding freshness to salads.

Growing Sweet 100 Tomatoes

Growing Sweet 100 tomatoes is similar to caring for any tomato plant. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Space the plants 24-36 inches apart to allow for proper airflow and growth.

To support their heavy fruit load, it’s recommended to grow Sweet 100 tomatoes on a trellis or fence. This prevents the vines from becoming laden with fruit and breaking. Alternatively, you can stake the plants or grow them in tomato cages.

Trellising Sweet 100 Cherry Tomatoes

Trellising Sweet 100 cherry tomatoes is an effective way to maximize space and improve fruit production. By training the vines to grow vertically, you can create a more compact and manageable plant while promoting good air circulation.

To trellis your tomato plants, follow these steps:

Install a trellis or fence near the planting area.
As the plants grow, gently guide their stems onto the trellis.
Use twine or garden tape to secure the stems to the trellis.
Continue training the vines as they grow, ensuring they receive ample sunlight.

Staking or Caging Sweet 100 Cherry Tomatoes

If you prefer not to trellis your tomatoes, staking or growing them in cages is another option. Staking involves driving a stake into the ground near each plant and tying the stem to the stake. Cages are wire or plastic structures that surround the plants and provide support.

Preventing Fruit Cracking

One common issue with Sweet 100 cherry tomatoes is fruit cracking. This can occur after heavy rains due to the rapid expansion of the fruit. To prevent cracking, avoid overwatering and ensure the plants have consistent moisture. Additionally, harvest the tomatoes as soon as they ripen to prevent them from becoming too heavy and splitting.

Harvesting Sweet 100 Tomatoes

Sweet 100 cherry tomatoes ripen about 70 days after planting. They’re ready to harvest when they turn a deep red color and feel slightly soft to the touch. Gently twist or snip the tomatoes from the vine, taking care not to damage the plants.

Tips for Beginners

If you’re new to growing Sweet 100 cherry tomatoes, here are a few tips:

Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Start your seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
Harden off the seedlings before transplanting them outdoors.
Water the plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Conclusion

Growing Sweet 100 cherry tomatoes is a rewarding experience that can provide you with an abundance of delicious, homegrown fruit. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can enjoy the sweet taste of success in your tomato garden.