HUNGARIAN OXHEART TOMATO

Growing and Care Guide

Hungarian Oxheart Tomato Plant

Plant Type

Indeterminate heirloom tomato (continues growing and producing until frost).

Mature Size

Height: 5–7 feet
Width: 2–3 feet

Light Requirements

Requires full sun for vigorous growth and best fruit production.

Soil Requirements

Prefers rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.
Ideal soil pH: 6.2–6.8.

Watering Needs

Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Deep watering helps prevent cracking and blossom end rot.

Temperature

Thrives in warm summer conditions. Protect young plants from frost and cold nights.

Planting Instructions

Starting Seeds Indoors

Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last expected frost date.

Seed Starting Tips

  • Plant seeds ¼ inch deep
  • Keep soil temperature around 75–85°F
  • Germination usually occurs within 5–10 days
  • Provide strong grow lights or bright sunlight after sprouting

Transplanting Outdoors

Move plants outdoors after danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures stay above 50°F.

Transplant Tips

  • Harden off plants for 7–10 days first
  • Plant deeply to encourage strong root growth
  • Add compost or aged manure at planting time
  • Water thoroughly after transplanting

Ongoing Care

Feeding

Feed regularly with a balanced tomato fertilizer once flowering begins.

Recommended Schedule

  • Compost or organic fertilizer at planting
  • Feed every 2–3 weeks during growing season
  • Avoid excess nitrogen to prevent excessive leaf growth

Pruning

Remove lower leaves and suckers to improve airflow and direct energy toward fruit production.

Support

Hungarian Heart produces extremely heavy fruits and requires strong staking or caging.

Harvesting

When to Harvest

Harvest when fruits become deep pink-red and slightly soft to the touch.

Harvest Tips

  • Pick regularly to encourage continued production
  • Allow tomatoes to fully color on the vine for best flavor
  • Store at room temperature for peak taste

Common Problems

Blossom End Rot

Usually caused by inconsistent watering or calcium imbalance.

Cracking

Can occur after heavy rain following dry conditions.

Leaf Diseases

Improve airflow and avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal problems.

Garden Notes

Hungarian Heart tomatoes are prized for:

  • Rich old-fashioned tomato flavor
  • Dense, meaty flesh
  • Low seed count
  • Excellent slicing and sauce quality
  • Large heart-shaped fruits

A favorite among heirloom gardeners and tomato enthusiasts.

Pollinator Friendly Gardening

Tomato flowers help attract beneficial pollinators and garden insects. Avoid spraying flowers during active pollinator hours.

Seed Saving

Hungarian Heart is an open-pollinated heirloom variety, meaning seeds can be saved and replanted year after year with proper isolation.

🌿 Happy Gardening from PROVIDENCE 🌿