Organic 'Magnum Beefsteak' Tomato
Organic 'Magnum Beefsteak' tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the seed company Gaia, a giant beefsteak carefully selected for exceptional flavor
The 'Magnum Beefsteak' tomato, created and perfected by breeder Chuck Wyatt, is an impressive heirloom variety, developed over many years to produce massive, uniform, and blemish-free fruit . Indeterminate and vigorous, it bears large, beefsteak-type tomatoes, ideal for thick slices, gourmet sandwiches, and tasting platters. Its flavor is deep, sweet, and well-balanced, reminiscent of the most prized heirloom tomatoes.
The plant, with its regular foliage, is robust but requires sturdy trellising and additional support to bear its enormous fruits, often classified as extra large (XL). It is a choice variety for gardeners who love growing spectacular tomatoes, both for their taste and visual impact.
Companion plants : Basil, parsley, carrot, asparagus, alliums, celery, borage, marigold, calendula, mint, sage, peppers, dill (until mature)
Negative plants : Potato, corn, kohlrabi, beetroot, fennel, peas, squash
Spread/Carry : Indeterminate, very vigorous
Plant height : 120 to 180 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Large beefsteak fruit, Chuck Wyatt long-lasting selection, excellent slicing tomato
Fruit color : Red
Fruit shape : Large, ribbed beefsteak
Fruit size/weight : Very large (XL)
Fruit type : Beefsteak
Texture/flesh : Meaty, dense, soft and juicy
Farming method
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Plant seeds 3–6 mm (1/8–1/4") deep in a light potting mix, then maintain a temperature of 23–29°C until germination (5–10 days). Reduce watering and nitrogen during hardening off to encourage short, sturdy seedlings.
Transplant when all risk of frost has passed. Space plants 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches) apart, with 120 to 180 cm (4 to 6 feet) between rows. Provide full sun (level 3) and regular watering (watering level 3) . Install very sturdy supports ; these are essential to support vigorous growth and large fruit.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the fruit reaches a deep red color and impressive size. To advance the harvest, pick those that have already shown their first signs of color , then let them ripen off the vine at 22°C or higher . Store between 12 and 21°C with 95% relative humidity to preserve their fleshy texture.
Usage ideas
• Perfect in thick slices , ideal for sandwiches and giant burgers
• Magnificent in trays of heirloom tomatoes , with its spectacular size
• Delicious in gentle stir-fries , roasts or stews
• Excellent for rich sauces , thanks to its dense flesh
The 'Magnum Beefsteak' tomato is a top-class heirloom variety: large, juicy, flavorful, and carefully selected. A choice tomato for gardeners who love growing exceptional fruit that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
