How Tomato Growers Adapted to Unpredictable Weather and Had a Successful Season in Nebraska
This year was an interesting one for tomato growers in Nebraska. The weather conditions were more variable than ever, with hot and wet periods followed by cool and dry ones. As a result of this, the production levels were lower than usual; 395 pounds of fruit compared to the average of 500 lbs on 30 plants. The average size of tomatoes was also reduced - 6-7 ounces instead of 10-12 ounces.
The top three producers in terms of weight were Bear Creek, German Red Strawberry, and Mavritanskie. In terms of number of tomatoes, however, Mavritanskie, Indian Dark Violet, and Bear Creek led the way. Winsall, Bear Creek, and German Red Strawberry produced the largest single tomatoes.
It turns out that one of the varieties grown has been around since 1994 without being named yet. It is still undergoing stabilization 24 years later! One variety that should have been included in the 9+/10 group was Bear Creek which came in late but yielded 55 tomatoes from one plant at almost a 9 ounce average.
Overall it sounds like many tomato growers had a successful season this year despite some challenges along the way. Paul's review provided insight into his experience as well as others such as Bill who faced similar issues with their garden. Jeff mentioned he would be adding Aker's Black to his grow list next year after hearing about it during the review.
Tomato gardening can be unpredictable due to weather and other factors but reviews like these provide great information to help guide fellow growers through any challenges they may face.It's also a great way to learn about new varieties and techniques.
The review was concluded with the reminder that it is important to keep track of your garden throughout the season so you can make adjustments as needed. This will help ensure success in future years, no matter what Mother Nature throws at us!
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What were the weather conditions in Nebraska this year?
The weather started out hot and wet, then cool and wet, then very hot and dry, then hot with soaking rains, then cool and wet again.
How did the weather affect production in the tomato garden?
Splitting and cracking was a problem that needed to be watched every day. Production was down from the sixteen year averages of 16 pounds of tomatoes per plant and 12 ounce average size per tomato. This year 395 pounds of fruit were harvested compared to the average of just over 500 lbs on 30 plants. The average sized tomato was in the 6-7 ounce range where normal for me has been in the 10-12 ounce range.
What were the top three producers in terms of pounds?
Bear Creek, German Red Strawberry and Mavritanskie.
What were the top three producers in terms of number of tomatoes?
Mavritanskie, Indian Dark Violet and Bear Creek.
What varieties produced the largest single tomato?
Winsall, Bear Creek and German Red Strawberry.
Is Craig's F2 seed from 1994 still around?
Yes, it is still around without a name yet.
Should Bear Creek have been included in the 9+/10 group?
Yes, Bear Creek should have been included in the 9+/10 group. We harvested 55 tomatoes from one plant for just over 30 pounds at almost a 9 ounce average. The fruit was very solid and juicy with few seeds. The flavor, like most dark tomatoes, was on the sweet side and a nice tomato taste and no after-taste. Our favorite for BLTs.