Each spring, he watches closely for the pecan trees to bud—a reliable Louisiana signal that it's time to plant. From there, rows of tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash receive months of meticulous care. This year, his eight thriving blueberry bushes are producing especially well, adding another success story to the season.

Masterson credits much of his harvest's quality to what lies beneath the surface: the soil. He regularly submits samples to the LSU AgCenter for pH and nutrient analysis, then carefully adjusts conditions to give his crops every advantage. One facet of his approach that I found especially respectable is that he only sprays his tomatoes after the sun goes down, not wanting to kill the bees. He’s also a composting enthusiast, mixing in what he calls “black gold” – earthworm and soldier fly castings – into each row. While he's happy to discuss many aspects of his process, a few trade secrets remain just that: secrets.

His dedication has earned respect from fellow growers, including his “tomato mentor,” Public Works Director Wayne Day. The two have even entered produce into local blind taste competitions, competing for the unofficial title of Zachary's best tomato.

Like the best gardens, Masterson’s life is rooted in patience, hard work, and care for the things that matter most. Whether he’s inspecting a new build, playing his fiddle, or tending another row of tomatoes, he’s steadfastly cultivating something that’s become just as much a part of Zachary as the harvest itself.