Tomato Seeds - Beefsteak -Ponderosa Red

The Ponderosa Red Tomato Seeds produce large beefsteak tomatoes with a low seed count and mild flavor. Suitable for growing in various environments.

The (Solanum lycopersicum) (aka Ponderosa Scarlet) was first grown in the U.S. in 1891. It produces large, flattened beefsteak fruits weighing 10-24 ounces with a deep red skin. Its taste is mild and sweet. This tomato variety thrives in humid areas and has an indeterminate growth, taking 80-90 days from transplant to produce fruits.

• 1/4 oz - Approximately 1,875 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 7,500 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 30,000 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 120,000 Seeds

Sowing: Start tomato seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. Keep the temperature at 70-75 degrees F and provide adequate light. Transplant seedlings in individual pots when the second set of leaves appears. Harden seedlings before planting outside and ensure soil temperature is at least 70 degrees F. Space plants 2' apart with a trellis or 3-4' apart without one. Consider companion planting with carrots or onions, but avoid cabbage or potatoes.

Growing:For best results, provide support for indeterminate tomato varieties with a trellis or support to protect against pests and diseases. Set up supports before vines develop and tie them as they grow. To prevent damage from cold temperatures, cover plants. Mulch and water once a week, avoiding wet leaves. Prune "suckers" to increase production and strength.

Harvesting: Check tomato ripeness by gently pressing; ripe when flesh yields. Mature color = ripe. If stem doesn't come off easily, cut with scissors. Vine ripened = best flavor. Harvest all before frost, even green ones. Unripe will ripen in warm place, out of sunlight.