Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
A legendary heirloom from the late 1920s, Abraham Lincoln Original Beefsteak Tomato delivers the classic, old-fashioned flavor home gardeners love — rich, balanced, and distinctly sweet. Its large, deep-red fruits average 10–12 ounces, with smooth, uniform shoulders and meaty, nearly seedless interiors that make every slice a showcase of texture and taste.
Plants are indeterminate, vigorous, and high-yielding, continuing to produce throughout the season. Fruits ripen in about 80–85 days, thriving in warm, sunny conditions with steady moisture. The Abraham Lincoln Original resists cracking and performs reliably even in humid regions, producing full clusters of well-shaped tomatoes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Ideal for fresh slicing, canning, juicing, and sauces, its thick flesh and balanced acidity lend themselves perfectly to both table and kitchen use. The variety’s long-standing reputation for productivity and superb flavor makes it a favorite among market growers and heritage gardeners alike.
A timeless heirloom that lives up to its name — dependable, honest, and abundantly generous, just like the American icon it honors.
Planting (How to Sow and Plant) — Abraham Lincoln Original Beefsteak Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Starting Indoors
Timing: Start seeds 6–8 weeks before your last frost date to ensure strong transplants.
Depth: Sow seeds ¼ inch deep in a sterile, well-draining seed-starting mix.
Temperature: Keep soil between 75–90°F (24–32°C) for best germination results.
Germination Time: Expect sprouting in 7–14 days under steady warmth.
Light: After emergence, provide 14–16 hours of bright light daily using grow lights or a sunny window.
Air Temperature: Maintain 70–80°F (21–27°C) for healthy seedling growth.
Potting Up: Transplant seedlings into 3–4 inch pots when the first set of true leaves appears, planting deeper each time to encourage strong root systems.
Feeding: Apply a ¼-strength balanced fertilizer weekly once seedlings establish.
Soil Temperature & Transplant Timing
Do not transplant by calendar date alone—wait until soil is consistently warm.
Check soil temperature at 2–4 inches deep:
Minimum: 60–65°F (16–18°C) for several mornings in a row
Ideal Root Zone: 70–85°F (21–29°C)
Night Temperatures: Above 55°F (13°C)
Use a soil thermometer to take morning readings for 3–5 days and average them to confirm readiness.
Transplanting Outdoors
Hardening Off: Begin hardening off plants 5–7 days before transplanting, gradually increasing their exposure to sun and outdoor breezes.
Location: Choose a site with full sun (6–8 hours minimum) and rich, loamy, well-drained soil. Ideal pH: 6.0–6.8.
Spacing: Space plants 24–36 inches apart in rows 36–48 inches apart.
Depth: Set transplants deep, burying the lower stem up to the first true leaves to encourage strong rooting along the buried stem.
Support: Stake or cage plants immediately after transplanting to prevent root disturbance later.
Mulch: Once soil warms, apply mulch (straw, shredded leaves, or compost) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Early Growth Care
Watering: Water deeply at soil level 2–3 times weekly (more in dry heat). Keep soil evenly moist but not saturated.
Feeding: Use a balanced organic fertilizer during vegetative growth, then switch to a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus mix at flowering to promote fruiting.
Pruning: Remove lower leaves that touch the ground and lightly prune suckers to improve airflow and focus energy on fruit clusters.
Pollination: Outdoor airflow and pollinators (bees, bumblebees) handle pollination naturally, but gentle shaking of blossoms can improve fruit set in calm or enclosed environments.
Transplanting Notes
In cooler climates, protect young transplants with row covers or cloches during early growth. In hot climates, provide light shade cloth during midday to reduce transplant shock. Once established, Abe Lincoln plants thrive with consistent care and reward growers with heavy yields of richly flavored beefsteak fruits through summer and into early autumn.
How to Grow – Abraham Lincoln Original Beefsteak Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Watering
Provide 1–1½ inches of water per week, adjusting for rainfall and heat. Deep, infrequent watering encourages deep root development and helps prevent issues like blossom end rot and cracking.
Best method: Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to the soil, keeping leaves dry and minimizing fungal disease.
If overhead watering is necessary, do it early in the morning so foliage can dry quickly before nightfall.
Avoid inconsistent watering—cycles of dryness followed by heavy soaking cause splitting and irregular fruit growth. Once fruits begin ripening, slightly reduce watering to concentrate sugars and enhance the tomato’s rich flavor.
Fertilizing
Feed plants every 2–3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or organic equivalent during early vegetative growth.
When the first blossoms appear, transition to a low-nitrogen, high-potassium formula (5-10-10 or 4-6-8) to support abundant fruiting and prevent excessive leaf growth.
Supplement with calcium (via bone meal or calcium nitrate) to reduce blossom end rot, and use compost tea or seaweed extract monthly for micronutrients and soil vitality.
Avoid overfeeding with nitrogen—lush vines and few fruits are the usual result.
Weeding & Mulching
Keep the base area weed-free, as weeds compete for nutrients and invite pests.
Apply 2–3 inches of mulch (straw, compost, or shredded leaves) once soil has warmed. Mulch moderates temperature swings, preserves moisture, and prevents soil splash that spreads disease.
In cooler regions, use black plastic mulch early in the season to warm soil, then replace with organic mulch once summer heat sets in. When hand-weeding, loosen soil carefully—tomato roots are extensive but shallow near the surface.
Sun & Temperature Management
Tomatoes demand full sun—at least 6–8 hours daily—to achieve full size and flavor.
Ideal daytime temperatures: 75–85°F (24–29°C)
Nighttime temperatures: 60–70°F (16–21°C)
During heat waves above 90°F (32°C), flowers may drop or fail to pollinate. Use 30–40% shade cloth or interplant with taller crops for temporary shelter.
Ensure ample airflow between plants to reduce humidity buildup, prevent leaf spot, and strengthen stems.
Spacing & Support
Plant 24–36 inches apart in rows 3–4 feet apart. Abe Lincoln is an indeterminate variety, so it requires staking, cages, or trellises to manage continuous growth and heavy fruit clusters.
Prune suckers (side shoots) below the first flower cluster to focus energy on main stems and improve air circulation. Secure vines loosely with soft ties to prevent stem damage.
Regular pruning also enhances sunlight exposure and fruit quality throughout the season.
Companion Planting
Good companions: Basil, carrots, onions, marigolds, parsley, chives, and lettuce—all deter pests and attract beneficial insects like bees and lacewings.
Avoid: Fennel, corn, and brassicas (such as cabbage or broccoli), which compete for nutrients or attract tomato pests.
Plant basil near each tomato—it repels hornworms and enhances tomato flavor when grown nearby. Interplanting with flowers like nasturtiums or calendula further deters aphids and whiteflies.
Container Growing
Suitable for large containers (minimum 10–15 gallons). Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix enriched with compost. Support plants with sturdy cages or stakes from the start.
Container tomatoes require daily moisture checks, as pots dry faster than ground soil. In midsummer, shade the sides of containers to prevent root overheating.
Feed lightly but consistently—nutrients leach faster in containers. A liquid tomato fertilizer every 10–14 days keeps plants vigorous and productive.
Season Extension
For an early start, use cloches, cold frames, or row covers to protect young plants from spring chill.
As autumn nears, cover plants with frost blankets or low tunnels to extend harvest into late fall.
In mild or frost-free climates, tomatoes may be overwintered by trimming back vines, reducing watering, and placing them in a sunny, sheltered location—though most gardeners replant fresh each year for best vigor and yield.
Additional Tips – Abraham Lincoln Original Beefsteak Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Harvesting
Stage Options: Harvest when fruits are deep red, firm, and fully colored, with a gentle give under light pressure. Slight green shoulders are normal in this heirloom variety and do not affect flavor.
Technique: Use pruning shears or scissors to clip tomatoes with a short piece of stem attached. Avoid twisting or pulling—vines are tender and easily damaged, which can reduce ongoing fruit set.
Frequency: Check plants every 2–3 days during peak ripening. Regular harvesting keeps vines productive and prevents overripe fruit from attracting pests.
Maturity Signs: Fully ripe fruits detach easily, have a glossy skin, and a rich, tomato aroma.
Flavor & Nutrition
Flavor Profile: The Abe Lincoln Original Beefsteak delivers a classic, old-fashioned tomato flavor—rich, balanced, and meaty, with low acidity and a subtle sweetness ideal for slicing and canning.
Nutrition: Excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, plus lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced inflammation. High water content contributes to its juicy texture, while natural sugars give depth to sauces and sandwiches.
Flavor Tip: For the most robust taste, slightly reduce watering as fruits begin to ripen. This concentrates sugars and acidity for that signature heirloom depth. Avoid overfertilization or heavy nitrogen late in the season—it can dilute flavor.
Handling
Picking Care: Handle fruits gently to avoid bruising. Ripe tomatoes are delicate and easily split when squeezed.
Washing: Rinse only before eating or processing. Washing before storage encourages mold and spoilage.
Work Area: Use clean shears and harvest baskets to prevent spreading disease between plants. Disinfect tools with a mild bleach solution or vinegar rinse between uses.
Post-Harvest Handling: Lay harvested fruit in single layers in shallow trays to prevent bruising. Keep stems pointed upward to avoid puncturing neighboring fruits.
Storage & Preservation
Fresh Storage: Keep tomatoes at room temperature (60–70°F / 16–21°C) until ripe. Avoid refrigeration unless fully ripe and intended for extended keeping; cold temperatures mute flavor and alter texture.
Freezing: Core, chop, or puree ripe tomatoes and freeze in airtight containers. Ideal for soups and sauces.
Drying: Slice ¼ inch thick and dry at 125°F (52°C) in a dehydrator or warm, airy space until leathery. Store in jars with desiccant packets.
Canning: Perfect for sauce, juice, or stewed tomato preservation due to dense flesh and low seed content. Use a water bath canner or pressure canner following safe preservation guidelines.
Flavor Extension: Roasting ripe tomatoes before freezing or canning intensifies sweetness and smoky richness.
Kitchen Use
Fresh: Slice thick for sandwiches, burgers, and caprese salads.
Cooked: Ideal for sauces, soups, and roasting—its meaty flesh cooks down beautifully without excess water.
Grilled/Roasted: Brush with olive oil and herbs; roast at 400°F (204°C) for 20–25 minutes to enhance natural sugars.
Pairings: Complements basil, garlic, oregano, balsamic vinegar, mozzarella, black pepper, and sea salt.
Flavor Combination Tip: For peak culinary results, combine Abe Lincoln with a small proportion of high-acid or cherry tomatoes to balance sauces naturally.
Growing & Pruning Tips
Growth Habit: Indeterminate vines reach 6–8 feet or more, producing continuously until frost. Provide tall stakes, trellises, or heavy-duty cages to support fruit-laden branches.
Pruning: Remove suckers below the first flower cluster to improve airflow and focus energy on fruiting. Moderate pruning reduces disease risk but avoid excessive leaf removal, which can lead to sunscald.
Soil Care: Maintain evenly moist soil and consistent feeding during fruit set. Mulch generously to stabilize soil temperature and moisture.
Fertilizing: After flowering, reduce nitrogen and increase potassium and phosphorus to enhance fruit development and flavor concentration.
End-of-Season Tip: As frost approaches, pinch off new blooms and small green fruits so the plant focuses energy on ripening existing tomatoes.
Container & Watering Tips
Container Size: Minimum 10–15 gallons per plant. Use sturdy cages and deep pots with 4+ drainage holes.
Drainage: Essential—tomatoes dislike soggy roots. Mix compost, perlite, or coarse sand into soil for better aeration.
Watering Rhythm: Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid frequent shallow watering, which promotes weak roots and cracking.
Root Protection: Shade pot sides in midsummer and mulch tops to keep root temperatures stable and prevent stress-related leaf curl.
Feeding: Use a diluted tomato-specific liquid fertilizer every 10–14 days once flowering begins.
Companion Planting & Pollinators
Good Companions: Basil, marigold, parsley, chives, onions, carrots, lettuce, and nasturtium—all attract beneficial insects and repel common pests.
Trap Crops: Nasturtiums and radishes lure aphids and flea beetles away from tomato vines.
Pollination Tip: Tomatoes are self-fertile, but bee visits and gentle hand-shaking of blossoms improve fruit set and uniformity.
Wildlife Note: If birds peck at ripe fruits, hang shiny tape, lightweight mesh, or reflective ornaments nearby for deterrence.
Fermentation Method: Scoop seeds with gel and place in a jar with water for 2–3 days, stirring daily until a thin mold forms—this breaks down the germination-inhibiting coating.
Cleaning & Drying: Rinse thoroughly, spread on paper or mesh, and dry for 7–10 days in a shaded, ventilated area.
Storage: Store completely dry seeds in airtight containers with desiccant packets in a cool, dark place.
Viability: Up to 6 years with proper drying and storage conditions.
Purity Note: If saving seeds, isolate by 25–50 feet from other tomato varieties or bag blossoms to ensure varietal integrity.
Common Pests & Problems — Abraham Lincoln Original Beefsteak Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Insects and Mites:
Like most heirloom beefsteak tomatoes, Abe Lincoln can attract a variety of common garden pests throughout the growing season. Aphids are among the most persistent, feeding on the undersides of tender leaves and stems, excreting honeydew that encourages sooty mold growth. Clusters of these tiny insects can quickly cause leaf curling, distortion, and yellowing. Whiteflies, another sap-sucking pest, often appear in warm, humid conditions and weaken plants by draining essential nutrients. Spider mites may infest plants during hot, dry spells, creating fine webbing across leaf undersides and causing stippling and premature leaf drop. Tomato hornworms, the large green caterpillars that blend in with foliage, can defoliate plants nearly overnight if left unchecked. Handpicking hornworms and disposing of them is effective for small gardens, while beneficial insects such as lady beetles, lacewings, and parasitic wasps help control aphid and mite populations naturally.
Cutworms may occasionally sever young transplants at soil level, especially in newly tilled soil, while flea beetles chew small, round holes in leaves during the early growth stages. Floating row covers can be used during the first few weeks after transplanting to protect young seedlings from both cutworms and beetles. If pest pressure increases, consider introducing natural predators or applying neem oil, pyrethrin, or insecticidal soap in the evening when pollinators are inactive.
Fungal and Bacterial Diseases:
Though known for its hardiness and reliable yields, Abe Lincoln is still susceptible to several fungal and bacterial issues that affect tomatoes, particularly in damp or humid environments. Early blight (Alternaria solani) and Septoria leaf spot are common concerns, beginning as small brown or black spots with yellow halos on the lower foliage. If not addressed, they can progress upward, defoliating the plant and exposing fruit to sunscald. Late blight (Phytophthora infestans), a more severe fungal infection, appears as irregular greasy lesions that quickly expand, turning stems black and fruit brown and leathery. Outbreaks are most common during extended periods of rain and cooler weather.
To minimize disease spread, avoid overhead watering, water at the base of the plant in the morning, and maintain good air circulation through proper spacing and pruning of the lower leaves. Always rotate tomato crops every 3–4 years, keeping them separate from related plants such as peppers, potatoes, and eggplants. Remove any diseased foliage immediately and dispose of it away from the garden area. Organic copper or sulfur-based fungicides can be applied preventatively during wet periods to reduce fungal pressure, while a layer of organic mulch will help block soil-borne spores from splashing onto the leaves.
Physiological and Nutritional Disorders:
Because of its large fruit size and heirloom genetics, Abe Lincoln is also prone to physiological disorders related to fluctuating water or nutrient levels. Blossom end rot is among the most common, caused by inconsistent soil moisture and resulting calcium uptake issues. It manifests as dark, sunken spots on the bottom of developing fruits. To prevent this, maintain steady moisture levels through deep, consistent watering and mulching. Incorporating compost or crushed eggshells into the soil before planting provides a slow-release source of calcium.
Fruit cracking and catfacing are additional problems seen in large-fruited heirlooms. Cracking occurs when fruits absorb water too rapidly after drought stress, causing the skin to split, while catfacing results from cold temperatures during flowering and leads to misshapen fruit. Though primarily cosmetic, both can be reduced by maintaining even watering, protecting young plants from temperature swings, and providing steady warmth during the fruiting period.
Viral Diseases and Environmental Stress:
While not as common, certain viral infections like Tomato Mosaic Virus (ToMV) or Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV) can occasionally affect Abe Lincoln plants. Symptoms include mottled leaves, stunted growth, or distorted fruit. Preventive measures include using clean, sterilized tools, purchasing certified virus-free seed, and controlling whiteflies that can spread TYLCV.
Environmental extremes can also stress the plant and reduce yields. Temperatures above 95°F can inhibit pollination, while extended nighttime temperatures above 75°F may cause flower drop. Conversely, cold snaps below 55°F can delay ripening and produce uneven coloration or green shoulders on the fruit. To reduce environmental stress, apply mulch to moderate soil temperature, use shade cloth during intense heat, and cover plants with lightweight row covers during cool spring nights.
Cultural Prevention and Best Practices:
Practice three-year crop rotation to prevent soil-borne disease buildup.
Avoid planting tomatoes near members of the Solanaceae family (peppers, eggplants, potatoes).
Water deeply and consistently, at soil level rather than from above, to minimize leaf wetness.
Apply organic mulch around the base of plants to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and block soil splash.
Maintain a spacing of 24–36 inches between plants for optimal airflow and sunlight penetration.
Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves for pests or early signs of disease, treating promptly before problems spread.
Remove lower leaves touching the soil and prune interior growth to increase circulation within dense canopies.
Apply neem oil, insecticidal soap, or Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for organic pest management.
Keep foliage dry by watering early in the morning so plants can dry before nightfall, reducing fungal spore viability.
By following these integrated pest management and cultural care practices, growers can preserve the health and productivity of Abe Lincoln tomatoes throughout the entire growing season. When well cared for, this heirloom variety remains one of the most dependable and flavorful beefsteak tomatoes in the garden—resilient, prolific, and naturally vigorous in both home and market plots.
FAQs — Abraham Lincoln Original Beefsteak Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Q: How large do Abraham Lincoln tomatoes grow, and what is their average fruit weight?
Abe Lincoln tomatoes are known for their classic beefsteak size and robust structure. Fruits typically range from 10 to 16 ounces each, though some can exceed a full pound under ideal growing conditions. The fruits are round, slightly flattened, and deeply red with a rich, dense flesh that contains minimal seeds. Their consistent size and uniform texture make them a dependable slicing tomato, perfect for fresh table use or canning.
Q: What makes Abraham Lincoln different from other heirloom beefsteak tomatoes?
What sets Abe Lincoln apart is its balance of sweetness, acidity, and density, combined with its reliability and disease tolerance. Unlike many old-fashioned beefsteaks that can be finicky, Abe Lincoln was bred for Midwestern climates to withstand moderate stress, resist cracking, and maintain strong yields even in uneven weather. Its deep, smoky-sweet flavor profile is richer than that of modern hybrids, but it also carries a subtle tang that enhances savory dishes and sauces. The variety’s improved resistance to Alternaria stem canker and early blight also makes it more forgiving to grow than many traditional heirlooms.
Q: Why do my Abraham Lincoln tomatoes sometimes show green shoulders or uneven ripening?
Green shoulders are a common trait in large, old-fashioned tomatoes like Abe Lincoln, caused by a combination of intense sunlight, fluctuating temperatures, and uneven nutrient distribution in the fruit. This happens when the top of the tomato, near the stem, remains slightly firmer and green even as the lower portion ripens. To minimize this, ensure your plants receive consistent watering and balanced fertilization, and consider shading the fruit clusters during periods of extreme heat. While some green shoulder is natural and harmless, a gentle reduction in direct midday sunlight can improve color uniformity and skin tone.
Q: How long does it take Abraham Lincoln tomatoes to mature, and how long do they produce?
Abe Lincoln tomatoes reach maturity in 80–89 days from transplant. As an indeterminate variety, they continue producing throughout the growing season rather than setting all their fruit at once. Expect steady harvests from midsummer through early fall, especially when regularly pruned and fed. In warm climates or with season extension (such as high tunnels or row covers), production can continue well into autumn. The plants are vigorous and tall, often reaching 5 to 6 feet, requiring staking or caging for best results.
Q: How should I water and fertilize Abraham Lincoln tomatoes for optimal growth?
Tomatoes perform best with consistent deep watering, allowing soil to dry slightly between sessions but never completely. Irregular moisture is the leading cause of blossom end rot and cracking, so aim for uniform hydration through drip irrigation or soaker hoses. Apply mulch to help stabilize soil moisture and temperature. For feeding, use a balanced organic fertilizer (such as 5-5-5 or 4-6-3) every 2–3 weeks, switching to a lower-nitrogen formula once fruit begins to set. Side-dress with compost midseason to sustain nutrient availability. Avoid overfeeding with nitrogen, as it can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit.
Q: What pests or diseases should I watch out for when growing Abraham Lincoln tomatoes?
Though resilient, Abe Lincoln can occasionally experience early blight, aphids, or hornworms in humid or stressed conditions. To prevent issues, rotate crops, remove infected foliage, and maintain airflow by pruning. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs for pest control and use neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed. For fungal protection, apply organic copper or sulfur sprays during extended wet weather. Because Abe Lincoln is naturally tolerant to Alternaria stem canker, it generally experiences fewer severe fungal outbreaks than other heirlooms of similar size.
Q: My Abraham Lincoln plants are flowering but not setting fruit — what’s happening?
This is typically caused by temperature stress. Tomatoes require nighttime temperatures between 55–75°F for successful pollination and fruit set. If nights are cooler or days hotter than that range, pollen becomes nonviable and blossoms may drop. Once temperatures stabilize, flowering and fruiting will resume naturally. To assist during heat waves, use shade cloth to reduce afternoon stress, and during cool periods, consider covering plants with row fabric to retain warmth overnight.
Q: Can Abraham Lincoln tomatoes be grown in containers or smaller gardens?
Yes — though traditionally grown in garden plots, Abe Lincoln can thrive in large containers (minimum 10–15 gallons) with proper staking. Use a nutrient-rich, well-draining potting mix and maintain consistent feeding and watering. Container-grown plants may produce slightly smaller yields than in-ground plants, but fruits retain the same exceptional quality. Ensure at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily, and rotate containers weekly if growing on patios to ensure even sun exposure.
Q: How long will saved seeds from Abraham Lincoln remain viable?
When properly cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool, dry, and dark place, Abe Lincoln tomato seeds can remain viable for 4 to 6 years. For best germination rates, store seeds in airtight containers with silica gel packs to control humidity. Always label your seed batches by year and generation to preserve strain purity and performance.
Tomato Seeds - Indeterminate - Abraham Lincoln Original Beefsteak
$200 USD
$350
Unit price /
Unavailable
History & Culture – Abraham Lincoln Original Beefsteak Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
The story of the tomato begins long before it was ever called “beefsteak,” “heirloom,” or “Abe Lincoln.” Its roots lie in the ancient agricultural traditions of Indigenous peoples of South America, particularly within the Andean and Mesoamerican regions. Long before European contact, Native farmers of the Andes, the Nahua and Maya of Mesoamerica, and many other Indigenous nations cultivated the wild Solanum ancestors that evolved into Solanum lycopersicum. These early tomato relatives grew among maize, beans, squash, and chile within the sacred balance of the milpa system—a sustainable intercropping method that reflected harmony between people, land, and spirit.
To Indigenous farmers, tomatoes were not merely food but a living reflection of the sun and soil—symbols of fertility, warmth, and renewal. They were bred in community, not laboratories: generations of seedkeepers carefully selected for color, size, flavor, and adaptability. The first cultivated tomatoes were small and golden, later evolving into the red-fruited types that spread across Indigenous trade routes long before European colonizers ever encountered them. By the time tomatoes reached Europe in the 16th century, they already carried millennia of Native innovation and ecological wisdom within their seeds.
As the tomato traveled northward and eastward through global exchange, it adapted to countless climates and cuisines. By the 19th century, it had become a fixture of American home gardens—particularly in the fertile soils of the Midwest, where settlers and Native communities alike cultivated varieties suited to local taste and resilience. Within that era of agricultural experimentation arose a uniquely American heirloom: the Abe Lincoln Tomato.
Bred in the late 1920s by George W. Middleton of Lincoln, Illinois, the Abe Lincoln Original Beefsteak was developed for uniform red color, large size, and exceptional old-fashioned flavor. It embodied the values of the early American homestead—self-reliance, productivity, and community sharing—traits mirrored in Indigenous agricultural traditions that predate it by thousands of years. The variety was introduced by H.W. Buckbee Seed Company of Rockford, Illinois, around 1928, during a time when regional seed companies still relied heavily on hand selection and local testing rather than industrial hybridization.
Praised for its dense, meaty flesh and balanced sweetness, the Abe Lincoln became a mainstay of Depression-era victory gardens and mid-century farmstands. Its durability and rich flavor made it a favorite for canning and fresh eating alike, a true reflection of what a tomato was meant to be before mass breeding favored shelf life over taste. Gardeners valued it for its steady yields, heat tolerance, and classic beefsteak form—a variety that delivered abundance without compromising flavor.
Saving seeds from Abe Lincoln Original Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum):
1. Selecting Plants for Seed Saving:
Choose healthy plants with vigorous growth and abundant, well-formed fruits.
Avoid plants showing signs of disease or poor growth.
2. Harvesting Seeds:
Timing: Allow the tomatoes to ripen fully on the plant until they are soft.
Collection: Harvest the ripe tomatoes and cut them open to remove the seeds.
3. Cleaning Seeds:
Separation: Place the seeds and their gel in a container of water. Let them ferment for 2-3 days, stirring daily to separate the seeds from the gel.
Inspection: Rinse the seeds thoroughly to remove any remaining gel and inspect for cleanliness and freedom from mold or pests.
4. Drying Seeds:
Place the cleaned seeds on a paper towel or screen in a well-ventilated, dry area. Allow them to dry completely for one to two weeks.
5. Storing Seeds:
Containers: Store seeds in labeled paper envelopes or airtight containers.
Storage Conditions: Keep in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Viability: Use seeds within four to six years for best results.
6. Testing Seed Viability:
Test by placing seeds on a damp paper towel in a plastic bag in a warm place and check for germination.
Tips for Successful Seed Saving:
Isolation: Maintain distance between different tomato varieties to prevent cross-pollination.
Pollinators: Tomatoes are primarily self-pollinating, but encouraging pollinators can still be beneficial.
Record Keeping: Keep detailed records of the process.
Uses and Benefits:
Abraham Lincoln Original Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is known for its large, red fruits and rich flavor. It is often used in salads, sandwiches, and sauces.
Tomatoes provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health. Abe Lincoln Original Tomatoes are versatile in culinary applications, adding flavor and nutrition to dishes.
Shipped from U.S.A.
Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
Triple tested
We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
Soil Readiness
for Tomato Plants (Solanum lycopersicum)
Where to get a soil test
Best option: your state’s Cooperative Extension soil testing lab.
Tip: Arid/alkaline regions (e.g., AZ, NM, UT, parts of CA) often use Olsen (bicarbonate) for phosphorus.
Interprets P by extractant; assumes ppm. Results are approximate.
Enter at least one value above, then Calculate.
Summary
Recommended Amendments (per 100 sq ft)
How to Use
Mix P & K sources into top 3–6″ a week or two before planting.
If pH is low, apply lime 3–4 weeks pre-plant (or fall/winter).
Side-dress tomatoes with ~0.1 lb N / 100 sq ft at first fruit set; a light second side-dress after heavy early harvest is optional.
Keep soil evenly moist and mulch to help prevent blossom-end rot (a Ca/moisture issue).
Add 1–2″ finished compost yearly to build organic matter.
Container mix? Use a peat/coco-based mix with compost and slow-release organic fertilizer; pH is usually already correct.
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Alliance Of Native Seedkeepers
Tomato Seeds - Indeterminate - Abraham Lincoln Original Beefsteak
$200 USD
$350
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
A legendary heirloom from the late 1920s, Abraham Lincoln Original Beefsteak Tomato delivers the classic, old-fashioned flavor home gardeners love — rich, balanced, and distinctly sweet. Its large, deep-red fruits average 10–12 ounces, with smooth, uniform shoulders and meaty, nearly seedless interiors that make every slice a showcase of texture and taste.
Plants are indeterminate, vigorous, and high-yielding, continuing to produce throughout the season. Fruits ripen in about 80–85 days, thriving in warm, sunny conditions with steady moisture. The Abraham Lincoln Original resists cracking and performs reliably even in humid regions, producing full clusters of well-shaped tomatoes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Ideal for fresh slicing, canning, juicing, and sauces, its thick flesh and balanced acidity lend themselves perfectly to both table and kitchen use. The variety’s long-standing reputation for productivity and superb flavor makes it a favorite among market growers and heritage gardeners alike.
A timeless heirloom that lives up to its name — dependable, honest, and abundantly generous, just like the American icon it honors.
The taste is great and the tomato is yellow in color 1-2 lb tomatoes.
Tomato Seeds - Indeterminate - Kentucky Beefsteak
D.F.
Seeds look great and gorgeous colors. These glass gem seeds look healthy and a great value for the price. I will update you when I plant them on how many germinate.
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D.F.
Wow, what a pretty blue these seeds are. i can't wait to plant them and watch them grow. I will update you on how many germinate. The seeds look healthy.
Corn Seeds - Flour -Hopi Blue Corn
D.F.
Seeds look great 👍 and i haven't had a chance to plant any of them yet, but I will update you when I put them in a seed tray and see how many germinate.
