Homestead Improved

Tomato

90d to harvest

Sink your senses into Homestead Improved’s richly aromatic, deep-sun flavor—an heirloom-leaning beefsteak with a juicy, velvety bite and a satisfyingly meaty interior. Fruits ripen to a classic warm red, often with a broad, slightly irregular shoulder that feels substantial in the hand and shines in the garden. Grow Homestead Improved for bold, slice-worthy presence in fresh salads, and for thick, luscious sauces that capture its full-bodied tomato character.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 27th
Last Frost	May 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jul 10th
Harvest Begins	Oct 8th
Harvest Ends	Aug 25th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	90
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Indeterminate
Support Needed	Stake
Planting Depth	Deep
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Recommended Companions

Genovese Red Freddy Basil

Inca II Marigold

Danvers Half Long Carrot

Gigante D'Italia Parsley

Napa Carrot

Flat-Leaf Italian Parsley

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Solanum lycopersicum during peak fruiting?

During peak fruiting, keep soil consistently evenly moist—about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of water per week, adjusting for heat and rainfall. Water deeply 1–3 times per week rather than frequent light watering, aiming moisture at the root zone to avoid leaf wetness. Mulch to reduce drying; irregular moisture can trigger blossom-end rot and cracking.

How can I tell when Solanum lycopersicum is ready to harvest?

Harvest when fruits have reached full size and show consistent color for your tomato type (typically a deep red or near the mature color) with a slight give when gently squeezed. Pick before fruits become overly soft or split, especially during hot, fast-swing weather. For best flavor, avoid harvesting only when still pale green—wait until the fruit is just past the color-break stage.