When to Pick Tomatoes from the Plant

Tomatoes are one of the most commonly grown vegetables in home gardens. Growing your own tomatoes can be rewarding and enjoyable, but one of the questions that arises when growing tomatoes is when to pick them from the plant. This is an essential question because picking a tomato too early results in an unripe fruit, and picking it too late can cause it to be too soft or even rotten. In this article, we will discuss when it's best to pick tomatoes from the plant.

When are tomatoes ready to harvest?

The first step in knowing when to pick tomatoes from the plant is to determine when they are ripe. Tomatoes start out as green and ripen to various shades of yellow, pink, red, or even purple. The most accurate way to tell if a tomato is ripe is by touch. Ripe tomatoes are firm but give slightly when you apply gentle pressure with your fingers. Similarly, the skin should be smooth and slightly shiny. If the tomato is very soft or the skin is wrinkled, then it's overripe.

The Different Types of Tomatoes and When to Harvest Them

Tomatoes come in various shapes and sizes, and each type has a different harvest time. Here are some popular types of tomatoes and when to pick them from the plant.

Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are small, bite-sized tomatoes that are sweeter than other types of tomatoes. They are ripe when they are firm, and the skin has a deep, glossy color. You can also tell that they are ready to be picked when they come off the stem easily.

Slicing Tomatoes

Slicing tomatoes are the most common tomatoes for making sandwiches and salads. They are ripe when their color is fully developed, and they feel heavy for their size. The skin should be smooth, and the fruit should give slightly when squeezed gently.

Paste Tomatoes

Paste tomatoes are oval or blocky-shaped, and they are commonly used for making tomato paste and sauce. They are ripe when their color is fully developed, but they may still feel firm to the touch.

Factors Affecting Tomato Ripening

Several factors can affect tomato ripening, including temperature, humidity, and sunlight. Tomatoes ripen best when the temperatures are between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. If temperatures are higher than this, tomatoes may ripen too quickly, leading to poor-quality fruit. Conversely, if temperatures are lower than this, tomatoes may not ripen at all or may take much longer to ripen.

Humidity can also affect tomato ripening. Tomatoes ripen best when the humidity is relatively low. If the humidity is too high, the tomatoes may become moldy or develop other issues that affect their quality. Finally, tomatoes need plenty of sunlight to ripen. Without enough sunlight, tomatoes may remain green or ripen unevenly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing when to pick tomatoes from the plant is a crucial factor in producing high-quality fruit. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your tomatoes are ripe and ready to be picked for the best flavor and texture. Remember to pay attention to factors such as type, ripeness, and environmental conditions to maximize your tomato harvest.