How to Harvest Cherry Tomatoes from Plant

Cherry tomatoes are small, sweet and versatile fruits that are loved by many gardeners. They are easy to grow and produce abundant fruits that ripen throughout the summer. Harvesting cherry tomatoes can be an exciting and rewarding experience for gardeners. Here is a guide on how to harvest your cherry tomatoes from the plant.

Observe the Fruit’s Color and Firmness

Before harvesting your cherry tomatoes, take a close look at the fruit’s color and firmness. Look for tomatoes that are a bright red or yellow color and firm to the touch. This indicates that the cherry tomatoes are ripe and ready to be harvested.

Pick the Tomatoes Carefully

When harvesting cherry tomatoes, it is important to handle them with care. Use a sharp pair of pruning shears or scissors to cut the stem of the tomato from the plant. Hold the tomato carefully and twist it gently to remove it from the stem. Do not pull the fruit forcefully or crush it as this can damage the plant and affect future harvests.

Harvest Tomatoes Regularly

One of the best ways to ensure a good crop of cherry tomatoes is to harvest them regularly. Checking your plants daily for ripe fruit will allow you to harvest them at the right time, which will give room for other fruits to develop. If all the fruits ripen at the same time and you don’t harvest them in time, the plant will start to drop the fruits thereby reducing the yield.

Store Tomatoes Properly

After harvesting the cherry tomatoes, store them at room temperature or below 70°F to extend their shelf life. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight as this can cause them to become overripe. If you plan to use them right away, wash them and dry them gently with a soft towel before use.

Conclusion

Harvesting cherry tomatoes is a fun and rewarding activity for gardeners, but it requires care and attention. By following these simple steps, you can ensure a regular and bountiful harvest of juicy and delicious cherry tomatoes that will grace your kitchen and dining table throughout the summer months.