Heirloom Oxheart Tomatoes

For us, Oxheart tomatoes are more than just another variety — they are the tomato that started it all! We've been growing heirloom Oxhearts for many years from seeds that we’ve carefully saved and replanted, continuing the tradition of flavorful, old-fashioned tomatoes right here on our family farm in Western Pennsylvania.

At The Farm on Windy Hill, Oxhearts are the only tomato we grow. From starting seeds in early spring to harvesting ripe tomatoes later in the summer, these plants are a labor of love for our whole family.

What Makes Oxheart Tomatoes So Special

Oxheart tomatoes are prized for their rich old-fashioned flavor, meaty texture, and unique heart-shaped appearance. These tomatoes are sweet and juicy, making them excellent for slicing, sandwiches, salads, sauces, and canning. We also love making salsa with them!

Their large fruit often has gentle ridges and natural variations in shape — part of the charm of heirloom tomatoes that are grown for flavor rather than uniform appearance. Oxhearts are typically sweeter and less acidic than many traditional tomatoes, with a dense texture that makes them especially satisfying fresh from the garden.

Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated varieties that have been passed down for generations because of their flavor, beauty, and history. Unlike many commercial tomatoes bred for shipping and uniform appearance, heirlooms are grown for taste.

Growing Oxheart Tomatoes

Oxheart tomatoes thrive in full sun and grow best when planted in rich, well-drained soil after all danger of frost has passed. Because these plants produce large, heavy fruit, they benefit from sturdy cages or staking for support throughout the growing season.

When planting, we recommend spacing plants about 2-3 feet apart with plenty of airflow between rows. Consistent watering is important, especially during hot summer weather, and a layer of mulch can help retain moisture and reduce weeds.

As indeterminate tomatoes, Oxhearts will continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season until frost, with tomatoes starting to be ready to harvest in mid-August. They may take a little longer to mature than smaller varieties, but the flavor is worth the wait!

For the best flavor, allow tomatoes to ripen fully on the vine before picking. With proper care, Oxheart tomatoes can provide an abundant harvest of beautiful heirloom fruit all summer long and even into the fall.

Quick Growing Tips

• Plant in full sun (6–8+ hours daily)

• Provide sturdy staking or cages-they can get very large and bushy

• Water consistently at the base of the plant

• Mulch to help retain moisture

• Space plants for good airflow, about 2-3 feet apart

• Harvest when fully colored and slightly soft to the touch

Seasonal Availability at The Farm on Windy Hill

• Tomato plants available in spring

• Fresh Oxheart tomatoes available during summer/fall harvest season

• Available at select local farmers markets (see our info below)

Our Oxheart Story