How to Grow State Fair Tomato
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State Fair Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum 'State Fair'
vegetableState Fair is a compact, determinate tomato variety bred specifically for container growing and small spaces. It produces abundant medium-sized red fruits with classic tomato flavor, making it ideal for patios, balconies, and small gardens. The plant typically reaches 24-36 inches in height and was developed to thrive in confined growing conditions.
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Example State Fair Tomato timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant State Fair Tomato
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest State Fair Tomato
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact State Fair Tomato dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 3-11, but grown as annual in cooler regions; thrives in zones 5-9
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Seedling
2-3 weeksYoung plants with 2 cotyledons followed by first true leaves; delicate and pale green
Provide bright light 14-16 hours daily under grow lights. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Maintain 70-75°F temperature. Thin seedlings to strongest plant.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeks after transplantBushy plant development with expanding foliage, sturdy stems, and increasing leaf production. Determininate growth pattern means compact, defined shape.
Harden off gradually before transplanting outdoors. Transplant when 6-8 inches tall with several true leaves. Water consistently. Avoid excessive nitrogen which promotes foliage over fruit.
Flowering
2-3 weeksYellow flower clusters appear in leaf axils; flowers are self-pollinating. Plant continues compact growth pattern.
Ensure adequate pollination through light air circulation or gentle daily shaking. Maintain consistent watering and avoid stress. Light fertilizing with phosphorus-rich formula supports fruiting.
Fruiting
2-3 weeksSmall green fruits develop rapidly; plant becomes heavy with developing clusters. Fruits gradually enlarge to 2-3 inches diameter.
Maintain steady watering schedule to prevent blossom end rot and fruit cracking. Support branches if heavy with fruit using cages or stakes. Continue moderate fertilizing.
Harvest
4-8 weeksFruits transition from green to glossy red; fully mature fruits are firm, aromatic, and flavorful. Continued harvest stimulates new flower production.
Pick fruits at mature red stage for best flavor. Prune lower spent growth to improve air circulation. Continue consistent watering and fertilizing for extended harvest.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick regularly; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray; encourage parasitic wasps
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Use reflective mulch; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap; yellow sticky traps
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Increase humidity; spray water on foliage; use miticide if severe; neem oil
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Use disease-resistant varieties; practice crop rotation; avoid overhead watering; remove infected plants
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Remove lower infected leaves; improve air circulation; mulch to prevent soil splash; fungicide if needed
Uses
Fresh eating and salads
CulinaryMedium-sized fruits are ideal for slicing into sandwiches and salads. The classic tomato flavor makes them excellent for fresh preparations where taste is paramount. [source]
Canning and sauces
CulinaryThe abundant yields and balanced flavor profile make State Fair suitable for making tomato sauce, salsa, and other preserves, though they contain moderate seeds. [source]
Container and small-space gardening
HouseholdBred specifically for pots and confined spaces, this variety is perfect for balconies, patios, and limited garden areas, producing full harvests in minimal space. [source]
Nutritional and antioxidant benefits
MedicinalTomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant with potential cardiovascular and cancer-preventive properties. Fresh consumption preserves many heat-sensitive nutrients. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeTomato flowers attract native bees and beneficial insects that support garden pollination and pest control. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting when fruits are fully red and slightly soft to gentle pressure, typically 70-80 days after transplanting. Pick regularly to encourage continued flowering. Harvest in morning for best flavor. Fruits left on vine longer develop fuller flavor. Container-grown plants produce continuously until frost.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 State Fair was specifically developed as a compact determinate variety to allow gardeners without much space to grow abundant tomatoes in containers, making it one of the most practical choices for apartment dwellers.
- 🌱 Unlike indeterminate varieties that sprawl and require extensive pruning, State Fair's determinate growth means the plant reaches a set size and produces most of its fruit in a concentrated period—ideal for canning operations.
- 🌱 Burying tomato transplants deeper than their original pot level (up to the first true leaves) encourages a stronger root system, as tomatoes can develop roots along buried stem portions.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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