As Bill said, some varieties are bred to have thicker skins - for shipping protection is my guess. However, it seems that hotter temps and very dry air or inconsistent moisture levels in the soil can also contribute to the problem regardless of the variety. It's part of the plant's natural defense mechanisms. I have found it to be a sometime problem on Rutgers and Celebrity in the past. Later fruit, assuming the weather co-operates, should be better but since plants in containers are prone to developing more problems than those in the ground, it stands to reason that they would be more easily and quickly affected. Mulching the plant helps and so does doing whatever you can to maintain a consistent moisture level. Good luck. ;) Dave

The 3 primary causes of tough skin on tomatoes is under- watering, the variety genetics, and high temps. Guess which is the primary contributing factor - under-watering. Spraying fungicides? I regularly apply Daconil on many different varieties and have for several years. But other than the normal varietal differences I've not noted any changes in skin texture or thickness. Recommend you only spray (true for any sprays) in early AM and never in the direct sun or heat of the day. Dave

mine are volunteer every year for the past 7/8 yrs & I noticed they had gotten a tough 'hide' didn't come up this year. I believe package said they were hybrid but they came 'true' as far as I could tell. I have a tastier 'green grape' or something, I like better though, so not concerned about the SunGold not making an appearance.

Hot and dry will definetly make the skins thicker. A little more water may help a bit but overwatering will cause the skin to split - so go easy. Keep the watering consistant and make sure it's absorbed into the soil (good drainage) and you may see an improvement on future harvest. Best regards.