Tomato Oxheart Red Vegetable Seeds
A traditional heirloom producing large, red, heart-shaped tomatoes with rich flavour and substantial, meaty flesh. Oxheart Red is a versatile choice for fresh salads, sandwiches, roasting and homemade sauces.
This open-pollinated variety develops vigorous, indeterminate vines that need sturdy support. Its distinctive fruit has relatively small seed cavities, making it particularly useful for gardeners who enjoy both fresh and cooked tomatoes.
Grow in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil, consistent moisture and space for good airflow.
Seed and Plant Details
Why Grow Oxheart Red Tomatoes?
- Traditional heirloom with distinctive, heart-shaped red fruit.
- Rich tomato flavour with sweetness and a gently tangy finish.
- Substantial, meaty flesh suited to slicing, roasting and sauces.
- Indeterminate growth allows an extended harvest in suitable conditions.
- Open-pollinated variety for gardeners who enjoy growing heirloom vegetables.
Flavour and Kitchen Uses
Oxheart Red has a rich tomato flavour, combining sweetness with a little acidity. Its substantial flesh and relatively small seed cavities make it useful in both fresh and cooked dishes.
Slice ripe fruit for sandwiches and salads, roast with olive oil and herbs, or simmer into pasta sauces. The large fruit also makes generous slices for serving with basil and fresh mozzarella.
How to Grow Oxheart Red Tomatoes
Raise seedlings in a protected position, then transplant into warm soil after frost risk has passed.
- Prepare the seed trays. Fill clean trays or small pots with moist seed-raising mix and allow excess water to drain.
- Sow the seeds. Sow approximately 5 mm deep, cover lightly and water gently. Pre-soaking is not normally required.
- Maintain warmth and moisture. Keep the mix evenly moist without saturating it. Move seedlings into good light as soon as they emerge.
- Prepare for transplanting. Pot on as needed and gradually introduce seedlings to outdoor conditions before planting out.
- Plant and support. Choose a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil. Install sturdy stakes, cages or a trellis at planting time.
- Water and feed. Water at soil level, maintain consistent moisture and apply a suitable tomato fertiliser according to its label.
- Harvest ripe tomatoes. Pick when fruit is red and gives slightly under gentle pressure. Handle carefully to avoid bruising.
When to Sow Oxheart Red Tomatoes in Australia
The following is a general guide. Adjust timing for local frost dates, elevation and seasonal temperatures. Early sowings in cooler regions need protection and warmth.
| Climate Zone | General Sowing Time | Growing Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cool | August–October under cover | Raise seedlings with warmth. Transplant after frost and allow enough warm weather for fruit to ripen. |
| Temperate | August–November | Protect early sowings. Plant outdoors after frost risk has passed. |
| Subtropical | Late winter–spring; autumn where frost-free | Allow for local frost risk. Avoid establishing plants during extreme heat. |
| Tropical | April–July | Grow during the cooler, drier season and maintain good airflow. |
| Arid | Spring after frost; autumn in warm, frost-free areas | Timing varies across arid regions. Protect from extreme heat and use reliable irrigation. |
Sowing Information
Best Soil and Containers for Oxheart Red
Choose well-drained soil enriched with mature compost. Avoid waterlogged areas and maintain moisture through flowering and fruit development.
For container growing, use a large pot with drainage holes and quality potting mix. Provide sturdy support and check moisture frequently, as containers can dry out quickly in warm weather.
Tips for Growing Oxheart Red Tomatoes
- Plant in full sun after frost risk has passed.
- Use sturdy supports and soft ties for the growing vines.
- Allow enough space for airflow and easy harvesting.
- Mulch established plants, keeping mulch clear of the stems.
- Water consistently at the base and avoid persistently saturated soil.
- Remove damaged or diseased foliage and monitor for pests.
- Harvest ripe fruit regularly and handle gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oxheart Red a bush or climbing tomato?
It is an indeterminate climbing tomato. Its vines need staking, a sturdy cage or a trellis.
Why are the tomatoes heart-shaped?
The broad shoulders and tapered lower end are characteristic features of this variety. Fruit shape and size can vary with growing conditions.
How long does Oxheart Red take to harvest?
Allow approximately 80–95 days from transplanting as a planning guide. Seed strain, temperature, sunlight and plant health affect timing.
Is Oxheart Red suitable for sauces?
Yes. Its substantial flesh and relatively small seed cavities suit sauces and roasting. It is also enjoyable sliced fresh.
Can I grow it in a container?
Yes. Choose a large container with good drainage and strong support, and provide regular watering and feeding.
Will it keep producing after the first harvest?
Healthy indeterminate vines can continue flowering and fruiting while conditions remain suitable.
Can Oxheart Red tolerate frost?
No. Protect seedlings from frost and wait for suitable warm conditions before planting outdoors.



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