Tomato 'Moonbeam'

'Moonbeam' tomatoes are a distinctive and sought-after variety known for their unique characteristics and exceptional flavor profile. These tomatoes typically exhibit a beautiful pale yellow or ivory hue, resembling the soft glow of moonlight, hence the name 'Moonbeam.' The fruit's coloration, combined with its smooth skin and round shape, makes it an attractive addition to both the garden and the kitchen.
This variety is often favored by gardeners for its reliable performance and adaptability to various growing conditions. 'Moonbeam' tomatoes are known to produce a bountiful harvest of medium-sized fruits with a deliciously sweet and tangy taste. The balanced flavor profile of these tomatoes makes them versatile for use in salads, salsas, or enjoyed fresh off the vine. The plant's determinate growth habit, which means it has a more compact and bush-like structure, makes it suitable for smaller garden spaces or container gardening.
'Moonbeam' tomatoes have gained popularity not only for their appealing appearance and delightful taste but also for their ease of cultivation. Whether you are a novice gardener or a seasoned enthusiast, these tomatoes are known to thrive with consistent care, providing a reliable source of flavorful fruits throughout the growing season. With their charming color, superb taste, and manageable size, 'Moonbeam' tomatoes are a stellar choice for gardeners seeking both aesthetic appeal and culinary excellence in their homegrown tomatoes.

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Soil Nutrients and Requirements:

• 'Moonbeam' tomatoes thrive in well-drained clay or loam soils with high organic matter.
• They tolerate soil acidity down to pH 5.5 but prefer the 6.0-6.8 range.
• Maintain a base saturation for calcium between 65-80 percent using calcitic lime or gypsum.
• Transplants benefit from a high phosphorus fertilizer, and caution is advised to avoid over-fertilization with nitrogen.

Plant Spacing and Row Spacing:

• Depending on whether the variety is determinate or indeterminate, plant spacing ranges from 12-18" for determinate and 24-36" for indeterminate varieties.
• Row spacing should be 4-6" centers, with 4 square ft/plant recommended for greenhouse tomatoes.

Other Considerations:

• Use black plastic, especially in cool climates, to warm the soil, maintain moisture, and reduce weed pressure and soil-borne diseases.
• Floating row covers can provide extra warmth early in the season but should be removed when temperatures exceed 85°F.
• For staked varieties, a twine support system is suggested to aid in plant support.

Harvest and Storage:

• Harvest fully ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Store tomatoes between 55-70°F at 95% relative humidity to prevent chilling damage.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Common pests like hornworms, aphids, whiteflies, Colorado potato beetles, cutworms, and flea beetles are mentioned with various control methods.
• Early blight, bacterial speck, anthracnose, and bacterial canker are highlighted as common diseases, with specific recommendations for disease prevention and treatment.

Following these guidelines can contribute to a successful 'Moonbeam' tomato harvest while effectively managing pests and diseases for optimal plant health.

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Moonbeam Tomato Salad with Basil and Feta
​Ingredients:

• 2 cups 'Moonbeam' tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
   • Wash and halve the 'Moonbeam' tomatoes. If they are on the larger side, you can quarter them for bite-sized pieces.
2. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a salad bowl, combine the halved tomatoes with torn fresh basil leaves.
3. Add Feta Cheese:
   • Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the tomatoes and basil.
4. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
5. Drizzle Dressing Over Salad:
   • Drizzle the dressing over the tomato, basil, and feta mixture. Gently toss the salad to ensure even coating.
6. Chill and Serve:
   • Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the Moonbeam Tomato Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch. It pairs well with grilled chicken or as a topping for crusty bread.

This Moonbeam Tomato Salad celebrates the natural sweetness and mild acidity of the tomatoes, complemented by the herbal freshness of basil and the creamy saltiness of feta cheese. The simple balsamic vinaigrette ties the flavors together, creating a delightful and colorful dish that captures the essence of fresh, homegrown tomatoes.