How to Grow Beefsteak Tomatoes (UK Guide)
Beefsteak tomatoes are large, meaty, and perfect for slicing, sandwiches and cooking. However, they are more demanding than cherry tomatoes and require a longer growing season.
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This guide explains how to grow beefsteak tomatoes successfully in the UK, including greenhouse tips, feeding and managing heavy fruit.
For the full tomato growing system, see TOMATOES: HOW TO GROW, BEST VARIETIES, PROBLEMS & EXPERT TIPS (UK GUIDE).
Are Beefsteak Tomatoes Suitable for the UK?
Yes — but they perform best:
- In a greenhouse
- In a polytunnel
- In very warm, sheltered outdoor spots
They need:
- A long season
- Strong feeding
- Consistent warmth
They are less reliable outdoors in cooler regions.
Best Beefsteak Varieties for UK Gardeners
Look for:
- Reliable greenhouse types
- Early-maturing beefsteaks
- Disease-resistant varieties
See BEST BEEFSTEAK TOMATO VARIETIES for detailed recommendations.
When to Sow Beefsteak Tomatoes
Sow:
- Late February to mid-March if growing under cover
- March for most UK growers
Because they take longer to mature, slightly earlier sowing can help — but only with sufficient light.
See CAN YOU SOW TOMATO SEEDS IN FEBRUARY? for early-start advice.
Growing Beefsteak Tomatoes in a Greenhouse
Greenhouse growing is strongly recommended.
Beefsteak tomatoes require:
- Warm night temperatures
- Consistent feeding
- Strong support systems
They are usually cordon types and grow tall.
Supporting Beefsteak Tomatoes
Support is critical.
Use:
- Strong bamboo canes
- Overhead string systems
- Heavy-duty ties
Fruit can become very heavy and snap stems if unsupported.
Pruning Beefsteak Tomatoes
Remove:
- Side shoots weekly
- Excess flower trusses if plant is struggling
Many growers limit to 4–6 trusses to ensure large fruit size.
See HOW TO PRUNE TOMATO PLANTS for full detail.
Feeding Beefsteak Tomatoes
These are extremely heavy feeders.
Feed:
- Weekly once flowering starts
- With high-potash fertiliser
Insufficient feeding leads to:
- Small fruit
- Poor flavour
- Blossom drop
See BEST FEED FOR TOMATOES for recommendations.
Watering Beefsteak Tomatoes
Consistent watering is essential.
Fluctuating moisture causes:
- Blossom end rot
- Splitting
- Irregular fruit shape
Water deeply and regularly.
Why Beefsteak Tomatoes Sometimes Fail in the UK
Common issues include:
- Insufficient heat
- Poor pollination
- Not enough feeding
- Growing outdoors in cold summers
If growing outdoors, choose the warmest, sunniest position possible.
Harvesting Beefsteak Tomatoes
Beefsteaks are ready when:
- Fully coloured
- Slightly soft
- Heavy and firm
Do not leave overly ripe fruit on the plant, as this reduces further production.
Final Thoughts: Are Beefsteak Tomatoes Worth It?
Yes — if you can provide:
- Warmth
- Feeding
- Strong support
- A long season
They require more effort than cherry types but produce impressive, restaurant-quality fruit.
Return to TOMATOES: HOW TO GROW, BEST VARIETIES, PROBLEMS & EXPERT TIPS (UK GUIDE) for complete tomato guidance.