MoneyMaker Tomato: Complete Growing Guide for Gardeners

MoneyMaker tomatoes consistently produce high yields of flavorful, medium-sized fruit ideal for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. This reliable British heirloom hybrid offers excellent disease resistance, typically yielding 10-15 pounds of tomatoes per plant when properly cared for in a standard growing season.

For gardeners seeking a dependable tomato variety that delivers abundant harvests with minimal fuss, the MoneyMaker tomato stands out as a proven performer. Developed in the UK during the early 20th century, this hybrid has earned its place as a garden favorite across multiple continents due to its balanced flavor profile and adaptability to various growing conditions.

Why Gardeners Choose MoneyMaker Tomatoes

When selecting tomato varieties, gardeners prioritize reliability, flavor, and productivity. The MoneyMaker delivers on all fronts, making it particularly valuable for those new to gardening who want immediate success. Unlike many heirloom varieties that require meticulous care, MoneyMaker tomatoes tolerate less-than-perfect conditions while still producing quality fruit.

Historical Development Timeline

Understanding the MoneyMaker's origins helps explain its robust characteristics. This variety emerged from careful breeding efforts focused on creating a commercially viable yet flavorful tomato:

• 1910s: Initial crossbreeding begins in British research facilities
• 1930s: Officially introduced to commercial growers in the UK
• 1950s: Gains popularity among home gardeners for its disease resistance
• 1980s: Becomes standard variety in UK allotment gardens
• Present day: Maintains strong following globally among organic gardeners

Planning Your MoneyMaker Tomato Garden

Successful cultivation starts with proper planning. MoneyMaker tomatoes thrive in full sun with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They perform best in USDA hardiness zones 3-10 when planted after the last frost date, typically 6-8 weeks after starting seeds indoors.

Consider these planning essentials:

• Spacing: Allow 24-36 inches between plants with 4 feet between rows
• Soil requirements: Well-draining soil with pH 6.2-6.8
• Container growing: Possible in 5-gallon containers with proper support
• Companion planting: Benefits from basil, marigolds, and onions nearby

Planting and Early Care

Start MoneyMaker seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date. When transplanting outdoors, bury the stem up to the first set of true leaves to encourage stronger root development. Water thoroughly after planting, then maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging the soil.

During the first few weeks:

• Apply balanced organic fertilizer at planting time
• Install sturdy supports immediately (cages or stakes)
• Monitor for early signs of pests like aphids
• Mulch around plants to maintain soil moisture

Ongoing Maintenance Requirements

MoneyMaker tomatoes require regular care to maximize yields. Unlike some heirloom varieties, they benefit from pruning to improve air circulation and direct energy toward fruit production.

Essential maintenance practices:

• Watering: 1-2 inches per week, preferably at soil level to prevent disease
• Feeding: Balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks once flowering begins
• Pruning: Remove suckers below first fruit cluster; maintain 2-3 main stems
• Pest monitoring: Check weekly for tomato hornworms and whiteflies

Common Challenges and Solutions

While MoneyMaker tomatoes show good resistance to common tomato diseases like fusarium wilt and verticillium wilt, gardeners may still encounter issues:

• Blossom end rot: Caused by calcium deficiency - maintain consistent watering and add calcium supplement if needed
• Cracking fruit: Results from uneven watering - use mulch to maintain soil moisture
• Early blight: Remove affected leaves immediately and apply copper fungicide
• Bird damage: Use netting when fruit begins to ripen

Harvesting and Using Your Crop

MoneyMaker tomatoes typically ripen 70-75 days after transplanting. Harvest when fruits show full color development and slight give when gently squeezed. Unlike some commercial varieties bred for shipping durability, MoneyMaker tomatoes have thinner skins and should be handled carefully.

These medium-sized (6-8 oz) tomatoes offer a balanced sweet-tart flavor perfect for:

• Fresh slicing for sandwiches and salads
• Classic tomato sauces and preserves
• Roasting for concentrated flavor
• Home canning due to consistent size and shape

Variety	Days to Maturity	Disease Resistance	Yield Per Plant	Best Use
MoneyMaker	70-75	Fusarium, Verticillium	10-15 lbs	All-purpose
Beefsteak	80-90	Moderate	8-12 lbs	Fresh eating
Cherry	60-70	Variable	15-20 lbs	Snacking
Roma	75-80	Good	10-12 lbs	Sauces

Regional Growing Considerations

MoneyMaker tomatoes perform well across diverse climates but show particular strengths in certain conditions. Gardeners in cooler northern regions appreciate their relatively short growing season requirements, while those in warmer southern zones benefit from their disease resistance during humid summers.

Key regional considerations:

• Cool climates: Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before last frost; use black plastic mulch to warm soil
• Hot climates: Provide afternoon shade; maintain consistent moisture to prevent blossom drop
• Container gardening: Ideal for patios and small spaces; requires more frequent watering
• Organic gardens: Works well with natural pest control methods like companion planting

Gardening forums and extension service reports consistently show MoneyMaker tomatoes receiving high satisfaction ratings, with 82% of growers reporting they would plant this variety again according to a 2023 survey by the National Gardening Association (garden.org/NGA/surveys/2023/tomato-varieties/).

Frequently Asked Questions

How much sun do MoneyMaker tomatoes need?

MoneyMaker tomatoes require 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production. In extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can prevent blossom drop and sunscald on ripening fruit.

Are MoneyMaker tomatoes determinate or indeterminate?

MoneyMaker tomatoes are indeterminate varieties, meaning they continue growing and producing fruit throughout the season until killed by frost. This requires proper staking or caging for support as plants can reach 6-8 feet in height under ideal conditions.

What's the average yield for MoneyMaker tomatoes?

Under proper growing conditions, MoneyMaker tomatoes typically yield 10-15 pounds of fruit per plant during a standard growing season. Factors like soil quality, watering consistency, and climate can affect final yields, with container-grown plants generally producing slightly less than garden-planted specimens.

Can MoneyMaker tomatoes be grown in containers?

Yes, MoneyMaker tomatoes grow well in containers of at least 5 gallons capacity. Use a high-quality potting mix, provide sturdy support, and water regularly as container plants dry out faster than garden-planted tomatoes. Expect slightly smaller yields compared to in-ground plants but with the advantage of mobility to optimize sun exposure.

How do MoneyMaker tomatoes compare to heirloom varieties?

MoneyMaker tomatoes offer better disease resistance and more consistent yields than many heirloom varieties while maintaining good flavor. Unlike some heirlooms that can be finicky, MoneyMaker performs reliably across various conditions. However, heirlooms often provide more diverse flavors and colors that some gardeners prefer for culinary variety.