Ace 55

Tomato

Zone 8b Save Garden

🌱 85d to harvest Determinate

Sink your senses into Ace 55’s rich, meaty fragrance and its deep, sun-warmed color—an exceptionally satisfying beefsteak that de…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Feb 9th
Last Frost	Mar 23rd
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 18th
Harvest Begins	Aug 11th
Harvest Ends	Nov 12th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	85
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Determinate
Support Needed	Cage
Planting Depth	Deep
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Greek Columnar Basil Basil

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage early blight or septoria leaf spot on Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) 'Ace 55'?

Early blight and septoria leaf spot show up as dark spots on older leaves, often moving upward as humidity rises. Remove and discard infected lower leaves, avoid overhead watering, and water at the soil line so foliage stays dry. If spots keep spreading, spray according to the label with a tomato-safe fungicide (e.g., chlorothalonil or copper-based products) beginning at first symptoms and repeating as directed.

How often should I water 'Ace 55' tomato during peak growth to prevent blossom-end rot and cracking?

During the main growth and fruit-set phase, keep soil consistently moist with about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of water per week, increasing during hot spells. Water deeply so moisture reaches several inches down, then let the top 1 inch (2.5 cm) of soil dry slightly before watering again—this steady pattern helps prevent blossom-end rot. Mulch around the plants to reduce swings in soil moisture that lead to fruit cracking.

When is 'Ace 55' tomato ready to harvest?

Harvest when fruits reach full size and the skin turns its mature color, typically starting around 70–85 days after sowing/planting depending on conditions. Pick when the fruit is firm but gives slightly to gentle pressure, and stop harvesting only when the plant is finished producing or gets hit hard by disease. For best flavor, harvest in the cool part of the day and let any slightly underripe fruit finish coloring indoors.

Sink your senses into Ace 55’s rich, meaty fragrance and its deep, sun-warmed color—an exceptionally satisfying beefsteak that delivers bold, tomato-forward flavor with a dense, juicy bite. The flesh stays pleasantly firm and substantial, making it ideal for thick, concentrated results in sauces and pastes, while its classic tomato character shines in fresh slices and hearty salads. Grow Ace 55 for a garden-to-table centerpiece that rewards with dependable performance and a truly “tomato” taste at peak ripeness.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For determinate beefsteaks, keep transplants on the smaller side of the window and avoid late-cold soil—consistent warmth improves early flowering and fruit set.