How Long After Tomato Plants Flower Do Tomatoes Grow

Tomatoes are a highly popular vegetable, fruit or berry (depending on who you ask) that is grown all around the world. They are easy to grow, highly nutritious, and can be used in a variety of dishes. However, for those growing tomatoes for the first time, it can be challenging to know when to expect the fruits to begin growing after the flowers appear. In this article, we will take a look at the timeline of tomato fruit growth, including how long after tomato plants flower do tomatoes grow.

Flowers Appear On Tomato Plants

Tomatoes grow best in warm weather, and typically start to flower in the late spring or early summer. The flowers of tomato plants generally appear about 35 to 40 days after planting. The flowers of the tomato plant are self-pollinating, meaning they have both male and female parts, which allows them to fertilize themselves without the need for insects or wind.

Tomato Fruit Sets

After the flowers of the tomato plant are pollinated, the fruit begins to set. The fruit begins to develop about five to ten days after the flower falls off. The fruit of the tomato is a critical part of the plant's reproductive process, as it contains the seeds that will grow new tomato plants in the future.

Tomato Fruit Development

After the fruit sets on the tomato plant, it will then begin to grow and mature. The fruit will grow in size and firmness every day, and this growth will continue as long as the weather conditions are favorable. This process typically takes anywhere from 45 to 70 days, depending on the variety of tomato, the weather, and the growing conditions.

Ripening Tomatoes

When the tomato fruit has grown to full size and has reached maturity, it will then start to ripen. The ripening process starts at the base of the fruit and progresses upward, changing from green to yellow, orange, and then red (depending on the variety). The time it takes for tomatoes to ripen can also vary, depending on the tomato variety, the weather, and growing conditions. Typically, most tomatoes will take anywhere from two to four weeks to ripen after they are fully grown.

In Conclusion

Tomatoes are a fantastic and versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of climates and conditions. Knowing when to expect the fruit to appear after the flowers have bloomed is critical for achieving a successful harvest. Generally, it takes about five to ten days after the flower falls off for the fruit to begin growing on the tomato plant, while it takes 45 to 70 days for the tomato fruit to grow and mature after it sets. Finally, it may take two to four weeks for the tomatoes to ripen after they have reached maturity. With this information in mind, you can begin to plan out your tomato growth and harvesting schedule with confidence!