Big Boy tomatoes are a popular variety of tomato known for their large size, juicy flesh, and sweet, tangy flavor. They are a type of beefsteak tomato and are a favorite among home gardeners and commercial growers alike.
Originating in the United States in the mid-20th century, Big Boy tomatoes were developed by the Burpee Seed Company as a hybrid of two other tomato varieties: the meaty, flavorful Rutgers tomato and the large, juicy Ponderosa tomato. The resulting hybrid tomato was named Big Boy and quickly became a hit among home gardeners and commercial growers due to its large size and high yield.
Big Boy tomatoes are known for their large size, often weighing between 10 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 Big Boy tomatoes is that they are a determinate variety, meaning that they produce their fruit all at once, making them ideal for canning and preserving. This also makes them a great choice for gardeners who want to harvest a large crop of tomatoes at one time.
When it comes to growing Big 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. Big 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 Big Boy tomatoes, as their large size and heavy fruit can put a strain on the plant.
One of the challenges of growing Big Boy tomatoes is that they can be susceptible to diseases such as verticillium wilt and fusarium wilt. These diseases are caused by soil-borne fungi and can lead to wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. To prevent these diseases, gardeners should rotate their tomato crops every year and avoid planting tomatoes in the same spot for more than two years in a row.
When it comes to harvesting Big 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, Big 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 Big Boy tomatoes to make tomato sauce or tomato soup, as their large size and high yield make them ideal for large-scale cooking.
Big Boy tomatoes are a popular and versatile variety of tomato that is well-suited for home gardens and commercial growing operations alike. While they may require a bit of extra care when it comes to disease prevention and support, the reward of their large, juicy fruit and sweet, tangy flavor is well worth the effort.