Arkansas Marvel Tomato

10 Seeds

Arkansas Marvel Tomato is a large-fruited heirloom beefsteak tomato developed for excellent flavor, vigorous growth, and reliable production. It produces smooth, deep red fruits weighing approximately 300–500 g, with a rich, sweet, old-fashioned tomato taste. As an indeterminate variety, it continues flowering and producing fruit throughout the season. It is ideal for slicing, sandwiches, fresh salads, and gourmet cooking. In the Gulf region, it performs best during the cooler months and grows exceptionally well in greenhouses, raised beds, large containers, and hydroponic systems.

Best Planting Time

• August to October (recommended)
• January to February (for greenhouse cultivation)
• Avoid outdoor planting when daytime temperatures consistently exceed 38–40°C.

Seed Preparation

• Soak seeds in warm water (25–28°C) for 6–8 hours before sowing (optional).
• No cold stratification is required.

Soil Preparation

Use fertile, loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

Recommended mix:

• 40% Coco peat
• 30% Compost
• 20% Garden soil
• 10% Perlite

Ideal soil pH

• 6.0–6.8

Sowing Method

• Sow seeds in seed trays or nursery pots.
• Plant seeds 0.5 cm deep.
• Cover lightly with fine soil or vermiculite.
• Keep the growing medium consistently moist until germination.

Temperature & Light

• Ideal germination temperature: 21–29°C
• Ideal growing temperature: 20–30°C
• Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• During very hot Gulf afternoons, provide 30% shade cloth.

Watering

• Keep the soil evenly moist during germination.
• Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil becomes dry.
• Water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the foliage.

Germination Time

• 7–14 days

Transplanting

Transplant seedlings when they have:

• 4–6 true leaves
• Height of 15–20 cm

Space plants:

• 60–75 cm apart

Space rows:

• 90–120 cm apart

Harvesting

Harvest begins:

• 80–90 days after transplanting

Pick fruits when they become deep red, firm, and slightly soft when gently squeezed.

Harvest regularly to encourage continuous production.

Gulf Climate Tips

• Plant during August to October for the highest productivity.
• Support plants with sturdy stakes, tomato cages, or trellises, as this is an indeterminate variety.
• Remove lower leaves and excessive side shoots to improve airflow and reduce disease pressure.
• Fertilize every 2 weeks with a balanced fertilizer, then switch to one higher in potassium and phosphorus during flowering and fruiting.
• Apply organic mulch to conserve moisture and reduce soil temperature.
• Arkansas Marvel Tomato performs exceptionally well in greenhouses, hydroponic systems, raised beds, and large containers.