The Big Zac is a hybrid beefsteak tomato known for its massive size, with individual fruits capable of weighing up to 6 pounds. It was bred in New Jersey by Minnie Zaccaria to produce a giant tomato with the superior flavor of heirloom varieties.
Key characteristics
Flavor: The Big Zac is prized for its "real tomato" flavor, which is a classic, full-bodied balance of slightly acidic and tangy notes.
Size: This variety can consistently produce 4- to 6-pound tomatoes, with some growers achieving specimens weighing over 7 pounds in competition.
Growth habit: Big Zac plants are vigorous, indeterminate vines, meaning they will continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season until the first frost. They require strong staking or caging to support the heavy fruit.
Harvest time: Fruits mature in approximately 80 days, with the heaviest production occurring later in the growing season.
Uses: Due to its impressive size and meaty texture, it is an excellent choice for slicing on sandwiches and in salads. The meaty pulp is also suitable for making sauces.
Growing tips
To maximize your harvest with Big Zac tomatoes, consider the following:
Provide support: Because the plants can reach 5 feet tall and the fruits are so heavy, strong supports like stakes or large cages are essential to prevent branches from snapping.
Ensure adequate nutrients: These plants require fertile, well-draining soil rich in compost and well-rotted manure. Feeding them with a high-potash fertilizer can help with larger fruit production.
Encourage deep roots: Watering through a perforated pipe placed in the ground near the roots can encourage deep root growth. This helps the plant handle heat stress and delivers fertilizer directly to the roots.
Prune for size: For gardeners aiming for the largest possible fruits, limit the number of fruits per truss and consider removing some suckers to focus the plant's energy.
