Better Boy tomatoes are a popular and reliable variety of tomato that is prized by home gardeners and commercial growers alike. They are a type of beefsteak tomato and are known for their large size, sweet flavor, and disease resistance.
Developed in the mid-20th century by the Harris Moran Seed Company, Better Boy tomatoes are a hybrid variety that was bred for its disease resistance and high yield. They are a cross between two other tomato varieties, the flavorful Big Boy tomato and the disease-resistant Stupice tomato.
Better Boy tomatoes are known for their large size, often weighing between 8 and 16 ounces each. They have a round, slightly flattened shape and a bright red color when fully ripe. The flesh of the tomato is juicy and meaty, with a sweet, tangy flavor that is perfect for eating fresh or using in cooking.
One of the advantages of growing Better Boy tomatoes is their disease resistance. They are resistant to many common tomato diseases, including verticillium and fusarium wilt, which can be devastating to other tomato varieties. This makes them a great choice for gardeners who want to grow tomatoes without using chemical pesticides or fungicides.
When it comes to growing Better Boy tomatoes, they prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They should be planted after the last frost of the season and spaced at least two feet apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation. Better Boy tomatoes also require consistent watering, as fluctuations in moisture levels can lead to problems such as blossom end rot.
To support the tomato plants, gardeners should use stakes or cages to prevent them from toppling over. This is especially important for Better Boy tomatoes, as their large size and heavy fruit can put a strain on the plant.
One of the challenges of growing Better Boy tomatoes is that they can be susceptible to blossom end rot, which is caused by a calcium deficiency in the plant. This can be prevented by ensuring that the soil has adequate calcium levels and by providing consistent watering.
When it comes to harvesting Better Boy tomatoes, it is important to wait until they are fully ripe before picking them. Look for tomatoes that are uniformly red and slightly soft to the touch. If the tomatoes are still slightly green, you can leave them on the vine for a few more days to ripen fully.
In terms of culinary uses, Better Boy tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. They are often sliced and served on sandwiches or in salads, but can also be roasted or grilled for a smoky, savory flavor. Some chefs even use Better Boy tomatoes to make tomato sauce or tomato soup, as their large size and high yield make them ideal for large-scale cooking.
Better Boy tomatoes are a popular and reliable variety of tomato that is well-suited for home gardens and commercial growing operations alike. With their disease resistance, large size, and sweet, tangy flavor, they are a great choice for gardeners who want to grow tomatoes without using chemical pesticides or fungicides. While they may require a bit of extra care when it comes to support and watering, the reward of their abundant, juicy fruit is well worth the effort.
