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Tomato Seeds, Dester
Description
(Solanum lycopersicum). A large pink beefsteak variety that reaches 1 to 1-1/2 pounds. Its rich sweet flavor makes it an excellent slicer. The seed came to us from an Amish lady who lives just a few miles from our Baker Creek farm. Anna worked as a house cleaner for Dr. Dester and his wife in Indiana in the 1970s. Having acquired the seed from Germany, the Desters shared their favorite tomato seed with Anna, who treasured it and now shares it with us. One of our best-tasting tomatoes.Â
- Indeterminate
- 75 days to maturity
- 6-8 hours of full sun
- Sprouts in 7-14 days
- Seed Depth: 1/8"
- Plant Spacing: 24"
- Ideal Temperature: 75-95 F
- Frost Hardy: No
Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs
Growing Tips
Dester Tomato grows best in full sun, 6-8 hours daily. Plant in well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter and keep the soil evenly moist. Support the plants with staking or caging to handle the weight of the large fruits and ensure healthy growth.Â
When to Grow
Start seeds indoors 6-10 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant outdoors once the danger of frost has passed, and temperatures are consistently above 60 F. Refer to local frost date charts to ensure correct timing based on your region.
How to Sow and Plant
Sow seeds about 1/8 inch deep in a seed-starting mix and maintain soil temperatures between 70-80 F for germination. Use a heat mat to warm up the soil if necessary. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week. When transplanting, space plants 24 inches apart to give them enough room to grow.
How to Grow
Water plants consistently, and focus watering at the base to reduce the risk of disease. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time and side-dress with compost or fertilizer every few weeks. Prune by removing side shoots or "suckers" to concentrate growth on fruit production.
How to Save
- 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
How long does it take for Dester tomatoes to mature?
Under ideal conditions, they typically mature in about 75 days from transplanting, continuing to provide a steady harvest throughout the season.
Can Dester tomatoes be grown in containers?
Yes, but choose large containers (at least 5 gallons) and provide sturdy support.
How do I store harvested Dester tomatoes?
Store ripe tomatoes at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, and consume them within a week for best flavor and texture. Refrigeration can make them last longer, but it also affects taste and texture.
More Questions?
Check out our "Tomatoes 101" blog post by staff horticulturist John Lenz.
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