Ace 55 VF Slicing Tomato Growing Guide

Ace 55 VF Slicing Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a determinate tomato variety known for its low acidity, rich flavor, and resistance to verticillium wilt (V) and fusarium wilt (F). This tomato is perfect for slicing, making it ideal for sandwiches, salads, and fresh eating. Ace 55 VF is a popular choice among home gardeners due to its reliability and excellent disease resistance.

    

Planting Ace 55 VF Slicing Tomato

Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day. Tomatoes thrive in warm, sunny conditions.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage. Tomatoes are heavy feeders, so nutrient-rich soil is essential for optimal growth.

When to Plant: Tomatoes are warm-season crops that should be planted after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60°F (16°C). In cooler climates, you can start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date and transplant them outdoors after the soil has warmed.

Starting Indoors: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 70-75°F (21-24°C). Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 6-8 inches tall and the danger of frost has passed.

Transplanting: Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows spaced 36-48 inches apart. Plant tomatoes deeply, burying two-thirds of the stem to encourage strong root development.

Caring for Ace 55 VF Slicing Tomato

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water tomatoes regularly, especially during dry periods, to ensure even moisture. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease.

Fertilization: Tomatoes are heavy feeders. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting time. Side-dress with compost or a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and fruit production.

Mulching and Weeding: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the tomatoes.

Staking and Pruning: Ace 55 VF is a determinate variety, meaning it grows to a set height and produces fruit over a short period. Staking or caging can help support the plants and keep the fruit off the ground. Pruning is generally not necessary for determinate varieties, but you can remove any suckers that appear below the first flower cluster to improve air circulation.

Pest and Disease Management: Ace 55 VF is resistant to verticillium wilt and fusarium wilt, but it can still be susceptible to other pests and diseases such as aphids, tomato hornworms, and blight. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or hand-picking to manage infestations. Practice crop rotation and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Harvesting Ace 55 VF Slicing Tomato

When to Harvest: Ace 55 VF tomatoes are typically ready to harvest 75-80 days after transplanting. Harvest when the tomatoes are fully red, firm, and slightly yielding to the touch.

How to Harvest: Use scissors or pruning shears to cut the tomatoes from the vine, leaving a short stem attached. Handle the fruits gently to avoid bruising. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more fruit.

Storing and Using Ace 55 VF Slicing Tomato

Storing Fresh Tomatoes: Freshly harvested tomatoes can be stored at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, tomatoes can be canned, frozen, or dried.

Culinary Uses: Ace 55 VF tomatoes are perfect for slicing, making them ideal for sandwiches, salads, and fresh eating. They can also be used in sauces, salsas, and other cooked dishes. Their low acidity makes them a good choice for those with sensitive stomachs.

Tomato Growing Tips

Companion Planting: Plant tomatoes alongside basil, marigolds, and carrots to enhance growth and deter pests. Avoid planting near brassicas (cabbage family) and fennel, as they can inhibit tomato growth.

Succession Planting: For a continuous harvest, start seeds indoors in batches every 2-3 weeks and transplant outdoors as space allows.

Spacing: Proper spacing is crucial for good air circulation and reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Ensure plants are spaced adequately to allow for proper growth.

Pest Prevention: Use row covers or insect netting to protect young plants from pests like aphids and flea beetles. Remove covers when plants begin to flower to allow for pollination.

 

Growing Ace 55 VF Slicing Tomatoes in your garden ensures a steady supply of delicious, low-acid tomatoes throughout the growing season. Enjoy the numerous culinary uses and the satisfaction of homegrown, flavorful tomatoes!