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pH: 6.0–6.8  ·  Rich, well-drained, warm; add calcium to prevent blossom-end rot

Balanced at planting; high K and P at fruiting; calcium important

Black Beauty is an indeterminate heirloom tomato producing dark mahogany-brown to nearly black fruits with complex, rich flavor. Prized by gardeners for its striking appearance and excellent taste, it's popular for slicing fresh, cooking, and display. Many growers choose this cultivar specifically for its unique color and dependable production of full-flavored fruit.

Sow seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last spring frost. Seeds require temperatures between 70–80°F to germinate reliably, typically sprouting in 5–10 days. Provide bright light as soon as seedlings emerge; they do not require darkness to germinate. No pre-treatment is necessary.

Start seeds indoors in seed-starting mix and keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when they develop true leaves. Harden off seedlings over 7–10 days before moving outdoors. Direct sowing is not recommended for this cultivar. Transplant to the garden after all frost danger has passed, spacing plants 24–36 inches apart in full sun. Bury the stem deeper than it was growing to encourage additional root development along the buried stem.

Water deeply and consistently, aiming for 1–2 inches per week; irregular watering causes problems like blossom end rot and cracking. Feed every 2–3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer or tomato-specific formula once flowering begins. As an indeterminate variety, Black Beauty requires sturdy cages, stakes, or trellis support; prune lower leaves once plants are established to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease. Monitor for common issues like early blight, septoria leaf spot, and hornworms; remove affected leaves promptly and treat with organic fungicides or neem oil as needed.

Black Beauty fruits mature in 70–80 days from transplanting. Harvest when fully colored but still slightly firm; the dark color can make ripeness harder to assess, so gently squeeze to check for slight give. Fruit continues ripening off the vine at room temperature, so pick at the first sign of color change if frost threatens. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight; do not refrigerate, as cold damages flavor and texture.