Maine Gardener Has Grown Record-Breaking Tomato

A Walpole resident set a new state record with a 6.92-pound tomato.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Gardening

Bold vector illustration of a massive, deep-red heirloom tomato resting on a wooden bench, evoking the success of competitive gardening. — Leon Busby of Walpole, Maine, has set a new state record by growing a 6.92-pound Domingo tomato. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Leon Busby harvested a 6.92-pound Domingo variety tomato at a farm in Walpole, securing the title for the heaviest tomato ever grown in Maine. The massive fruit currently ranks as the 10th largest tomato in the world.

Why it matters

This achievement shatters the previous Maine state record by more than 1.7 pounds, demonstrating the potential for competitive gardening within the state's climate. The harvest highlights advanced cultivation techniques for high-yield heirloom varieties.

The 6.92-pound tomato represents a significant increase over the prior state record of 5.19 pounds. Busby has previously produced a 3-pound specimen, and he is already targeting an 8-pound goal for the next growing season.

The players

Leon Busby

A Maine gardener who set a new state record for tomato cultivation.

Maine Pumpkin Growers Organization

A local agricultural collective that manages record-keeping and seed distribution.

The details

The record-setting Domingo tomato was grown by planting seeds on June 28 and pollinating the plants in late July. During the growth cycle, the plant received one gallon of water daily and consistent application of organic fertilizer to support the fruit's massive development. The final weight was verified by a formal weighing process conducted at Main Street Grocery in Damariscotta.

Busby planted the seeds on June 28, 2026.
Pollination of the tomato plants occurred in late July 2026.
The record-breaking tomato was harvested on September 14, 2026.

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The Home Front

This harvest elevates the standards for competitive gardening in Maine, marking a significant advancement over the state's historical records. It reflects a growing regional focus on high-output heirloom cultivation and the use of specialized growing cycles to achieve record weights.

Gardeners interested in the Domingo variety can look for seeds in the upcoming Maine Pumpkin Growers Organization annual packets. Consider refining your irrigation and organic feeding schedule now to prepare for next season's planting.

The takeaway

Achieving massive vegetable growth requires a disciplined routine of daily hydration and specific nutrient management. Residents interested in high-yield gardening should track the upcoming seed release from the Maine Pumpkin Growers Organization.