Moneymaker Tomatoes: Complete Growing Guide
Moneymaker tomatoes are one of the most well-known and widely grown tomato varieties in the UK. Valued for their reliability, strong growth, and classic tomato flavour, they have been a staple in gardens and greenhouses for decades. As the name suggests, Moneymaker tomatoes are generous croppers, producing large numbers of medium-sized fruits over a long season when given the right care.
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This complete growing guide covers everything you need to know about growing Moneymaker tomatoes successfully — from sowing seeds and planting out, to feeding, training, harvesting, and solving common problems. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, this variety remains one of the safest and most rewarding choices.
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What Are Moneymaker Tomatoes?
Moneymaker is a cordon (indeterminate) tomato variety, meaning the plants continue to grow and flower throughout the season rather than stopping at a fixed height. Plants are vigorous and upright, producing trusses of round, red tomatoes with a balanced, traditional tomato flavour.
The fruits are typically medium-sized, making them versatile for salads, sandwiches, cooking, and general kitchen use. Moneymaker tomatoes are especially popular with UK gardeners because they perform reliably even in less predictable summers.
They are most commonly grown under cover, such as in greenhouses or polytunnels, but can also succeed outdoors in warm, sheltered locations.
When to Sow Moneymaker Tomatoes
Correct sowing time plays a major role in the success of your crop.
Indoor Sowing Times
In the UK, Moneymaker tomatoes are usually sown indoors between late February and early April. Earlier sowing works well if you have a heated propagator or warm indoor space with plenty of light. Later sowings suit unheated greenhouses or outdoor planting.
Seeds germinate best at temperatures between 18–22°C, with seedlings typically appearing within 7–14 days.
Avoiding Leggy Seedlings
Sowing too early without enough light often results in tall, weak plants. If sowing in February, make sure seedlings are kept in a bright position or under grow lights to encourage strong, compact growth.
How to Sow Moneymaker Tomato Seeds
Use clean pots or seed trays filled with fine, moist seed compost. Sow seeds thinly on the surface and cover lightly with compost or vermiculite. Water gently and place in a warm spot.
Once seedlings appear, remove any covers and move plants into strong light. Keep compost moist but never waterlogged.
When the first true leaves develop, prick out seedlings into individual pots. Handle them carefully by the leaves rather than the stem to avoid damage.
Growing Conditions for Moneymaker Tomatoes
Light
Tomatoes thrive in full sun. Moneymaker plants need at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day. In greenhouses, clean glass and good positioning maximise light levels.
Temperature
Tomatoes prefer warm, stable conditions. Growth slows below 10°C, and frost will kill plants. Outdoor planting should only take place once all frost risk has passed.
Ventilation
Good airflow reduces disease risk and improves pollination. Ventilate greenhouses regularly, especially during warm or humid weather.
Planting Moneymaker Tomatoes
Planting Under Cover
In greenhouses or polytunnels, Moneymaker tomatoes can usually be planted out from late April to early May, depending on temperatures.
Planting Outdoors
For outdoor growing, wait until late May or early June. Harden plants off gradually over 7–10 days before planting into their final position.
Spacing
Space plants approximately 45–60cm apart. Adequate spacing improves airflow, light penetration, and overall plant health.
Planting Depth
Tomatoes benefit from being planted deeply. Bury the stem up to the first set of leaves to encourage additional root formation and stronger plants.
Growing Moneymaker Tomatoes in Containers
Moneymaker tomatoes grow well in containers and grow bags, making them suitable for patios and small gardens.
Choose pots at least 30–35cm wide and deep. Use high-quality compost with good drainage. Container-grown tomatoes require more frequent watering and feeding, as nutrients are quickly depleted.
Ensure containers are placed in the sunniest position available and are sheltered from strong winds.
Supporting and Training Moneymaker Tomatoes
As a cordon variety, Moneymaker tomatoes require support throughout the growing season.
Use canes, strings, or spiral supports to keep plants upright. Tie the main stem loosely as it grows, checking ties regularly to prevent damage.
Removing Side Shoots
Side shoots appear between the main stem and leaf joints. Remove these regularly to prevent plants becoming bushy and unproductive.
Pinching out side shoots when they are small keeps plants manageable and directs energy into fruit production.
Watering Moneymaker Tomatoes
Consistent watering is critical for healthy plants and good fruit quality.
Water deeply and regularly, keeping the soil or compost evenly moist. Avoid letting plants dry out completely, followed by heavy watering, as this can cause fruit splitting and other problems.
Always water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves to reduce the risk of disease.
Feeding Moneymaker Tomatoes
Moneymaker tomatoes are heavy feeders and benefit from regular nutrition.
Once flowers appear and the first fruits begin to form, start feeding with a high-potassium tomato feed. Feed weekly, or more frequently for container-grown plants, following recommended guidelines.
Avoid excessive nitrogen, as this encourages leafy growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
Flowering and Pollination
Moneymaker tomatoes are self-pollinating, but good conditions help maximise fruit set.
In greenhouses, gently tapping the plant or support can help release pollen. Good ventilation and stable temperatures also improve pollination success.
Cold nights or extreme heat can reduce fruit set, so maintaining steady conditions is important.
Harvesting Moneymaker Tomatoes
Moneymaker tomatoes are ready to harvest when fully red and firm but slightly soft to the touch.
Pick fruits regularly to encourage continued cropping. Harvesting with the stalk attached helps extend shelf life.
Under good conditions, plants can produce tomatoes from early summer through to autumn, especially when grown under cover.
Common Problems with Moneymaker Tomatoes
Poor Fruit Set
Often caused by low temperatures, poor light, or lack of ventilation. Improve airflow and maintain stable growing conditions.
Yellowing Leaves
Some yellowing of lower leaves is normal as plants mature. Excessive yellowing may indicate nutrient deficiencies or watering issues.
Fruit Splitting
Usually caused by irregular watering. Maintain consistent moisture levels to prevent sudden swelling of fruits.
Tomato Blight
Moneymaker tomatoes are not blight-resistant. Reduce risk by improving airflow, avoiding wet foliage, and removing affected leaves promptly.
Growing Moneymaker Tomatoes in the UK Climate
Moneymaker tomatoes are particularly well suited to UK conditions. While they can be grown outdoors in warm, sheltered areas, they perform best under cover where temperature and moisture levels are easier to control.
In cooler or wetter summers, greenhouse or polytunnel growing offers more reliable yields and a longer harvesting period.
Saving Seeds from Moneymaker Tomatoes
Moneymaker tomatoes are usually grown from open-pollinated seed, meaning saved seeds can often grow true to type.
To save seed, allow fruits to fully ripen. Scoop out the seeds, ferment briefly in water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely before storage.
Saved seeds should be labelled clearly and stored in a cool, dry place.
When to Stop Tomato Plants Growing
Towards late summer, pinch out the growing tip of the plant above the final truss you want to ripen. This directs energy into existing fruits rather than new growth.
As autumn approaches and temperatures drop, remove flowers and small green fruits unlikely to ripen.
Tips for Maximising Yields
• Keep plants well-watered and consistently fed
• Remove side shoots regularly
• Ensure good light and ventilation
• Harvest ripe fruit frequently
• Maintain clean, tidy plants
Small, regular actions throughout the season make a big difference to overall productivity.
Final Thoughts
Moneymaker tomatoes remain one of the most dependable tomato varieties for UK gardeners. Their strong growth, heavy yields, and classic tomato flavour make them an excellent choice for beginners and experienced growers alike.
With proper sowing, consistent watering, regular feeding, and correct training, Moneymaker tomatoes can produce an impressive harvest over a long season. Whether grown in a greenhouse, polytunnel, container, or sheltered garden bed, they continue to earn their reputation as a reliable and rewarding tomato variety.