Are Better Boy Tomato Plants Determinate?

Tomatoes are a staple in most American households, enjoyed for their juicy texture and delicious taste. One popular variety is the Better Boy tomato plant, known for its large size and disease resistance. However, one question that often arises among growers is whether Better Boy tomato plants are determinate or indeterminate. In this article, we will explore what determinate and indeterminate mean and whether Better Boy tomato plants fall into either category.

Determinate vs. Indeterminate Tomato Plants

Determinate and indeterminate refer to the growth habit of tomato plants. Determinate tomato plants grow to a certain height and then stop, producing all their fruit in a short period of time. They are often called "bush" plants and do not require staking or pruning. Indeterminate tomato plants, on the other hand, continue growing and producing fruit until they are killed off by cold weather or disease. They require staking or some other form of support as they can grow uncomfortably tall otherwise.

Are Better Boy Tomato Plants Determinate?

The answer to this question is both yes and no. Better Boy tomato plants can be either determinate or indeterminate, depending on the variety you choose to grow. The original Better Boy tomato plant was indeterminate, meaning it continued growing and producing fruit until the weather turned cold. However, in recent years, a determinate variety of Better Boy has been developed.

The determinate version of Better Boy tomato plants is often marketed as a "patio" or "bush" plant, ideal for growing in containers or smaller gardens. These plants grow to a height of about 3 to 4 feet and produce all their fruit within a few weeks. This makes them ideal for gardeners who want to get a lot of tomatoes at once for canning or preserving. However, if you want a constant supply of fresh tomatoes over a longer period of time, you should choose the indeterminate variety.

Growing Better Boy Tomato Plants

No matter which version of Better Boy tomato plant you choose to grow, there are some general tips you should keep in mind to ensure a bountiful harvest. First, make sure to plant your seedlings after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Tomatoes love warm weather and will not do well in cold or damp conditions.

Second, make sure your tomato plants get plenty of sunlight. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. If you do not have a sunny spot in your garden, try growing them in containers and moving them around to catch the sunniest spots.

Third, tomatoes are heavy feeders and need plenty of nutrients to produce a good crop. Plant them in soil that has been enriched with compost or other organic matter, and fertilize them regularly throughout the growing season.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, Better Boy tomato plants can be either determinate or indeterminate, depending on the variety you choose to grow. The original Better Boy tomato plant was indeterminate, but a solid, determinate variety has also been developed. If you want a lot of tomatoes at once for canning or preserving, choose the determinate variety. If you want a constant supply of fresh tomatoes over a longer period of time, choose the indeterminate variety. No matter which you choose, follow the tips above to ensure a healthy and bountiful harvest.