Better Boy Tomato in Zone 5B — Great Plains

Better Boy Tomato is a classic choice for Plains gardeners, and for good reason. Its fantastic flavor, versatility in the kitchen, and reliable yields make it a rewarding addition to any garden. Plus, its disease resistance gives you a leg up, which is always welcome with our unpredictable weather.

Our region certainly throws some curveballs with its extreme temperature swings, variable rainfall, and occasional hail, but don't let that discourage you. By understanding the specific needs of Better Boy and tailoring your approach to our 178-day growing season, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest.

Starting your Better Boy Tomato seeds indoors is crucial in our Zone 5B climate. You'll want to get those seeds going from mid-March through early April, about six weeks before you plan to put them in the ground. This gives them a head start and ensures they're strong enough to handle our sometimes-challenging spring weather.

Use seed trays or small pots filled with a good seed-starting mix. Keep them in a warm spot (around 70-75°F) and provide plenty of light – a grow light works wonders, especially with our variable spring sunshine.

Water from the bottom to avoid damping-off. This helps keep the soil consistently moist without overwatering the delicate seedlings. It's a trick that really ups your germination rate.

Transplanting your Better Boy Tomato seedlings outdoors should happen from early May through early June. Make sure all danger of frost has passed – a late frost can set them back significantly.

Before planting, harden off your seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for about a week. Start with a few hours of shade and increase the time and sun exposure each day. This helps them adjust to the wind and temperature fluctuations of the Plains. Space your plants 24-36 inches apart to give them plenty of room to grow.

Keep an eye on the forecast. We can get some pretty intense winds in the spring, so providing temporary wind protection can be a lifesaver for newly transplanted seedlings.

Watering is critical for Better Boy Tomatoes, especially in our climate with its variable rainfall and hot summers. These tomatoes are not drought-tolerant and need consistent moisture to produce large, crack-free fruit.

During the hotter months, you'll likely need to water deeply two to three times a week, providing about 1-2 inches of water each time. Use the finger test: stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. In periods of heavy rainfall, adjust your watering schedule accordingly to avoid overwatering.

Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can encourage disease in our low-to-moderate humidity. Signs of underwatering include wilting leaves and slow growth. Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves and root rot. Mulching around your tomato plants helps retain moisture and keeps the soil temperature more consistent.

Better Boy Tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they'll keep growing and producing fruit all season long. This also means they need sturdy support to handle their vigorous vines and heavy fruit.

Cages or stakes work well, but cages are generally easier to manage. Install the support at planting time to avoid disturbing the roots later. As the plant grows, gently guide the vines through the cage or tie them to the stake with soft twine.

Wind is a major consideration on the Plains. Make sure your support system is strong enough to withstand strong gusts, or consider a windbreak to protect your plants.

Pruning your Better Boy Tomato plants can improve fruit size and overall plant health. Focus on removing suckers – the small shoots that grow in the crotch between the main stem and branches.

Pinch off these suckers early in the morning when they are small (less than 2 inches long). You can also remove the lower leaves as the plant grows to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease.

As the end of the season approaches (around mid- October), you can top the plant to encourage the remaining fruit to ripen before the first frost.

You can expect your first harvest of Better Boy Tomatoes from mid-July through early September, about 72 days after transplanting. The tomatoes are ready to pick when they are a deep red color, slightly soft to the touch, and easily pull away from the vine.

To harvest, gently twist the tomato until the stem snaps. Avoid pulling, which can damage the plant. Regular harvesting encourages continued production.

As the first frost approaches (mid- October), harvest any remaining mature green tomatoes and bring them indoors to ripen. They'll ripen best in a single layer, not touching each other, in a cool, dark location.

Here are some common problems you might encounter with Better Boy Tomatoes in the Great Plains:

Blossom End Rot

• What it looks like: A sunken, dark brown or black leathery patch on the bottom of the tomato.
• What causes it: Inconsistent watering, leading to calcium deficiency. The variable rainfall we often see in the Plains can make this a real challenge.
• How to fix/prevent it: Water consistently, especially during dry spells. Mulch heavily to maintain even soil moisture. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen. Remove affected fruit.

Cracking

• What it looks like: Splits in the tomato skin, either concentric circles around the stem or radial lines radiating from the stem.
• What causes it: Heavy watering or rain after a dry spell. The rapid change in moisture causes the fruit to swell faster than the skin can expand.
• How to fix/prevent it: Water consistently to avoid the dry/wet cycle. Mulch to maintain even moisture. Harvest promptly when ripe.

Hornworms

• What it looks like: Large sections of leaves stripped overnight. Look for large green caterpillars with white stripes and dark droppings on the leaves below.
• What causes it: These are the larvae of hawk moths. They can defoliate plants quickly if left unchecked.
• How to fix/prevent it: Handpick them (they're easy to spot once you know what to look for). Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray is effective and organic.

Early Blight

• What it looks like: Brown spots with concentric rings (target pattern) on lower leaves first, spreading upward. Leaves yellow and drop.
• What causes it: A fungal disease that thrives in warm, humid conditions. Soil splash spreads it onto the lower leaves.
• How to fix/prevent it: Remove and destroy affected leaves. Mulch to prevent soil splash. Water at the base of the plant. Improve air circulation through spacing and pruning. Copper fungicide can slow the spread.

Great Plains Specific Challenges: The hot summers and variable rainfall can stress tomato plants, making them more susceptible to blossom end rot and cracking. Wind can also damage plants and spread disease. Consistent watering, mulching, and providing wind protection are key to success with Better Boy Tomatoes in our region.

Companion planting can give your Better Boy Tomatoes a boost. Basil is a classic companion because it repels tomato hornworms and whiteflies. Carrots improve soil drainage and aeration, benefiting the tomato roots. Parsley attracts beneficial insects that prey on tomato pests. French marigolds repel nematodes and other soil pests.

Avoid planting brassicas (like cabbage and broccoli) near tomatoes, as they compete for nutrients. Fennel inhibits the growth of many plants, including tomatoes. Corn can shade tomatoes and reduce air circulation, increasing the risk of disease.