Wait to plant until your frost date has passed and temperatures are above 45 F at night, with soil temperatures at least 55 F. In cool climates, row covers can be used to protect plants and warm the soil (remove row covers when blossoms appear). Tomatoes can be planted 2” below the ground, as roots will grow from the underground portion of the stem. Cages should be spaced 15” apart, while plants grown with stakes can be spaced 3 feet apart. Apply a layer of straw to help conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Water immediately after planting with a fish emulsion fertilizer.

• Staking – place a stake in the ground 6 inches away from the plant. As your plant grows, choose 2 stalks to wrap around the stake. Prune away the rest of the stalks.

• Caging – wrap a wire cage around your plant. There is no need to prune when caging.

• Natural growth – if you do not place a cage or stake near your plant, it will naturally spread and grow along the ground. You will not need to prune, and you will likely get a higher yield.

Watering: Apply water with a soaker hose or garden hose to the base of the plant. Aim for soaking the soil 6-8” down every 7 days. Adjust for your local climate, increasing watering frequency when temps exceed 85 F. Overhead watering should be avoided, as it encourages disease. Water early in the morning.

Fertilizing: Use an organic fertilizer like Espoma Garden Food every 2-3 weeks per package rates.

Pest Control: If you see any pests, spray with a steady stream of water. For other pest issues, consult a local expert to discuss organic solutions.

Harvesting: Beefsteak tomatoes should be ready around 80-90 days after transplanting. Allow tomatoes to ripen on the vine and pick when there is some give to the skin when pressed with a finger. Ripe tomatoes should be almost fully colored, though the tops of the plants near the stem may still be somewhat green. Store on the counter for best taste or refrigerate as need for a few days. Tomatoes are not frost hardy and all fruit should be picked prior to the first fall frost.

Usage and Storing: Do not put your tomatoes in the fridge until they are fully ripened. Even then, it is not recommended. Instead, store in a very cool and dark place where the tomatoes do not touch. You can eat fresh or add to recipes. You can also can or dry unused tomatoes for the next season.