Golden Queen Tomato

Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost. Sow seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch in warm soil, maintaining temperatures between 70°F and 80°F for germination. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. When seedlings develop true leaves, thin or transplant them into individual pots to grow sturdy transplants for the garden.

Transplant outdoors after the last frost date when soil has warmed to at least 60°F. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days. Plant at 24-inch spacing in rows 36 inches apart, burying the stem slightly deeper than it was growing in the pot to encourage stronger root development. Water gently after transplanting and provide support stakes or trellis immediately.

Harvest Golden Queen tomatoes when they reach their full golden-yellow or yellow-orange color, typically 60 to 69 days after transplanting. The fruit should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed but still hold its shape. Pick tomatoes when they've fully colored for best flavor and sweetness. You can also harvest tomatoes at the breaker stage (when they first show color) and ripen them indoors if needed to avoid splitting during heavy rains or to extend the season.

As an indeterminate variety, Golden Queen will continue growing and producing fruit throughout the season, making pruning a matter of management rather than necessity. Remove lower leaves once the plant is well-established to improve air circulation and reduce disease pressure. Prune out suckers (shoots that grow between the main stem and branches) to direct energy toward fruit production rather than excessive foliage. Stop pruning about 4 weeks before your first expected fall frost to allow the plant to focus energy on ripening remaining fruit.