Pair of Classic Beefsteak tomatoes on a vine with a third cut in half to show the center.
Cut and whole Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes on white background.
Gardener holding two giant Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes in the Baker Creek greenhouses.
Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes still attached to the vine on light background with a red handled knife.
Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes surrounding a bowl full of salsa with cilantro.
A Classic Beefsteak Tomato with cut tomatoes in a jar on metal ice cooler.
A side view perspective of Two Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes on white background.
Cut and whole Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes with a red handled knife on white background.
Pair of Classic Beefsteak tomatoes on a vine with a third cut in half to show the center.
Cut and whole Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes on white background.
Gardener holding two giant Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes in the Baker Creek greenhouses.
Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes still attached to the vine on light background with a red handled knife.
Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes surrounding a bowl full of salsa with cilantro.
A Classic Beefsteak Tomato with cut tomatoes in a jar on metal ice cooler.
A side view perspective of Two Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes on white background.
Cut and whole Classic Beefsteak Tomatoes with a red handled knife on white background.

Tomato Seeds,
Classic Beefsteak

3.825 ReviewsSKU: #TM111Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Solanum lycopersicum). The classic beefsteak tomato of yesteryear is back! Massive fruit, easily reaching 1 to 2 lbs, has deep red flesh and good old-fashioned tomato flavor. These are the tomatoes that Grandma grew; meaty and firm, perfect on sandwiches or served straight up with a pinch of salt. A particularly good producer in the Northeast, but well adapted to the entire U.S. as well. Scientists recently determined that Beefsteak’s massive fruit was originally caused by a chance mutation. This happy accident created a much larger tomato. Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortez brought samples of a larger, flattened tomato back to Europe. From this seed was developed many larger tomatoes we know today.

Growing Tips: Classic Beefsteak tomatoes grow best in full sun and well-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Consistent moisture is very important, but avoid waterlogging to prevent root diseases. As indeterminate plants, they can grow over 6 feet tall and require sturdy support structures like cages, trellises, or stakes to manage the weight of their large fruits.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Solanum lycopersicum
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Indeterminate
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
85
Planting Depth
⅛ in.
Plant Spacing
24 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 6-10 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and temperatures consistently remain above 60 F. In regions with shorter growing seasons, consider using row covers or planting in a greenhouse to extend the growing period. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post "Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources."

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Maintain soil temperatures between 70-80 F during germination, using a heat mat if necessary. Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, transplant them into the garden, spacing plants about 24 inches apart for good airflow and enough room for growth.

How to Grow

Regularly prune suckers to direct the plant's energy toward fruit production. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time and side-dress with compost or fertilizer during the growing season to support healthy growth and fruit development. Mulching around the base of the plants helps conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

How to Save Seeds

  • Most tomatoes are self-pollinating and don't frequently cross; in a garden setting, separating by 25 feet should prevent 99% of cross-pollination. Or you can bag and hand pollinate for 100% purity.
  • On a small scale, seeds may be scooped from the fruits and dried on a paper towel.
  • For larger quantities or cleaner seeds, fermentation for a few days is recommended.
  • Once dry, tomato seed can be stored in a cool, dry, dark place; good seed retains viability for 5 years or more.

FAQ

What are the best growing conditions for Beefsteak tomatoes?

Classic Beefsteak tomatoes prefer full sun and well-draining, fertile soil with consistent moisture. They require sturdy support due to their large fruit size.

How large do Beefsteak tomato fruits get?

The fruits are massive, easily reaching 1-2 pounds each.

Can I cook with Classic Beefsteak tomatoes?

Their meaty and firm texture makes them perfect for sauces as well as sandwiches or enjoyed fresh with a pinch of salt.

Browse our full range of heirloom tomato seeds.
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