Better Boy Tomato in Zone 6B — Great Plains

Better Boy Tomato is a classic choice for Plains gardeners, and for good reason. Its reliable yields of flavorful, juicy tomatoes make it perfect for slicing, sandwiches, and sauces. Plus, its disease resistance gives you a real edge in our sometimes unpredictable climate.

We know the Great Plains throws curveballs – from spring temperature swings to summer hail and periods of drought. But with smart timing and some simple strategies, you can absolutely enjoy a bumper crop of Better Boys within our 198-day growing season.

Starting your Better Boy Tomato seeds indoors from early to late March gives them the head start they need to thrive in our shorter growing season. Aim for about six weeks before you plan to transplant them outside.

You'll need seed trays or small pots, a good seed-starting mix, and a warm, brightly lit spot. A heat mat underneath the trays helps speed up germination. Once the seedlings emerge, make sure they get plenty of light – a grow light works wonders, especially with our variable spring weather. Don't forget to water from the bottom to avoid damping-off disease.

Transplant your Better Boy Tomato seedlings outdoors from late April through late May, once the risk of frost has passed. Before planting, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for about a week. This helps them adjust to the sun and wind, which can be brutal in our region.

Plant them 24-36 inches apart in well-drained soil. Be ready to protect them from late frosts or sudden temperature drops with row covers or blankets. A little extra effort at transplant time pays off big later!

Better Boy Tomatoes are thirsty plants, especially when they're loaded with fruit. Consistent watering is key to preventing blossom end rot and cracking, so don't skimp!

During the heat of summer, when daytime temps can soar into the 90s, you'll likely need to water deeply several times a week. Use the finger test – if the soil feels dry about two inches down, it's time to water. Aim for about 1-2 inches of water per week, depending on rainfall. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can encourage disease in our low-to-moderate humidity.

Watch for signs of underwatering, like wilting leaves, or overwatering, like yellowing leaves. A good layer of mulch will help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, which is especially helpful during our extreme temperature swings.

Better Boy Tomatoes are indeterminate, meaning they'll keep growing and producing fruit all season long. These vigorous vines need sturdy support to handle the weight of all those tomatoes.

A tall tomato cage is a great option, providing plenty of room for the plant to grow. Staking is another good choice, especially if you plan to prune heavily. Install your support at planting time to avoid disturbing the roots later. And remember, wind protection is essential in the Plains, so consider a sheltered spot or a windbreak.

Pruning your Better Boy Tomato helps improve air circulation and fruit size. Focus on removing suckers – the small shoots that grow in the "V" between the main stem and branches.

Pinch them off when they're small. You can also remove the lower leaves as the plant grows to improve airflow and prevent soil-borne diseases from splashing up. As the end of the season approaches (late October), you can top the plant to encourage the remaining fruit to ripen before frost.

Get ready for a delicious harvest from early July through late August! Better Boy Tomatoes are ready to pick when they're a deep red color and have a slight give when gently squeezed.

Grasp the tomato gently and twist or clip it from the vine, being careful not to damage the plant. Regular harvesting encourages continued production. As the first frost approaches (late October), harvest any remaining green tomatoes and bring them indoors to ripen. They'll still taste great!

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. Our variable rainfall and occasional drought periods can trigger this.
• How to fix/prevent it: Water consistently, especially during dry spells. Mulch heavily to maintain even soil moisture.
• Cracking
• What it looks like: Splits in the tomato skin, either in circles around the stem or radiating out from it.
• What causes it: Heavy watering or rain after a dry spell. The fruit expands too quickly.
• How to fix/prevent it: Consistent watering is key. Mulch to maintain even moisture. Harvest promptly when ripe.
• Hornworms
• What it looks like: Large sections of leaves stripped overnight. Big green caterpillars with white stripes.
• What causes it: These hungry caterpillars can defoliate your plants quickly.
• How to fix/prevent it: Handpick them (they're easy to spot). Bt spray is effective and organic.
• Early Blight
• What it looks like: Brown spots with concentric rings on lower leaves, spreading upward.
• What causes it: A fungal disease that thrives in warm, humid conditions.
• How to fix/prevent it: Remove affected leaves. Mulch to prevent soil splash. Water at the base. Copper fungicide can help.

Great Plains Specific Challenges: The combination of hot heat, low-to-moderate humidity, and variable rainfall in the Great Plains can make it challenging to maintain consistent soil moisture, which is crucial for preventing blossom end rot and cracking. Wind can also stress plants and spread diseases.

Companion planting can give your Better Boy Tomatoes a boost. Basil is a classic companion, improving flavor and repelling pests. Carrots and parsley attract beneficial insects that prey on tomato pests. French marigolds deter nematodes and other soil pests.

Avoid planting tomatoes near brassicas (like cabbage and broccoli), as they can stunt tomato growth. Fennel inhibits the growth of many plants, including tomatoes. Corn can block sunlight and compete for nutrients, so keep them separated.