Homestead

Tomato

Zone 8b Save Garden

🌱 85d to harvest Indeterminate

Sink your senses into Homestead’s richly aromatic, beefsteak-sized fruit—warm, sun-kissed color with a lush, meaty interior that …

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Feb 2nd
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	Indeterminate
Support Needed	Cage
Planting Depth	Deep
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	9

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s a common tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) disease/pest problem and how do I manage it?

Early blight is a frequent issue on tomatoes, showing as dark, concentric spots on older leaves that spread upward. Remove and discard infected leaves and improve airflow (space plants, stake/cage them) to slow spread. If it’s been recurring, spray a labeled protectant such as chlorothalonil or a copper-based fungicide according to label timing, starting at the first signs and repeating as directed.

How often should I water tomatoes during the main growing phase?

During active growth and fruiting, keep soil consistently moist but not soggy—aim for about 1–2 inches of water per week, adjusting for heat and rainfall. Water deeply at the base of the plant so moisture reaches the root zone, and avoid frequent light watering that can trigger blossom-end rot and uneven growth. Mulch around the plants to stabilize soil moisture and reduce fluctuations.

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

Harvest when fruits are fully colored for the variety and easily come off the vine with a gentle twist. Look for a firm-but-giving feel (not hard) and a strong tomato aroma near the stem. If nights are cool and fruits are turning color, you can pick at the “breaker” stage and finish ripening indoors, but full vine ripeness is best for flavor.

Sink your senses into Homestead’s richly aromatic, beefsteak-sized fruit—warm, sun-kissed color with a lush, meaty interior that feels velvety and substantial in the hand. Each slice-worthy tomato delivers a balanced, classic tomato tang with a gentle sweetness, making it a favorite for bold summer plates and hearty preparations. Grow Homestead for a dependable 85-day season and a garden-to-table harvest that shines in fresh slices, thick sauces, and robust roasting-style dishes.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 9 days first.

Expert Note

For best yields with this heat-tolerant heirloom, transplant only when soil is reliably warm (60°F+) and night temps stay above ~50°F to avoid early stunting.