If you’re growing tomatoes, you’ve probably encountered the frustrating problem of cracked skins. It’s a pretty common issue, especially when the weather changes suddenly or if your watering routine isn’t quite right. Let’s dig into why tomatoes crack on the vine, how you can prevent it, and whether those cracked beauties are still good to eat.
What Do Tomato Cracks Look Like?
Cracks typically appear near the stem end of the fruit and come in two main types:
- Radial Cracks: These are deeper cracks that extend outwards from the stem towards the bottom of the tomato, like spokes on a wheel.
- Concentric Cracks: These form circles or rings around the stem, and they are usually not as deep.
Why Do Tomatoes Crack? The Main Culprits
Here are the primary reasons why your beautiful tomatoes might be splitting:
- Irregular Watering: This is the most common reason. The skin often splits after a long dry spell when the plant suddenly gets a lot of water, either from you or from a heavy rain. The fruit rapidly expands, but the skin can’t keep up.
- High Humidity: Too much moisture in the air can reduce the skin’s elasticity, increasing the internal pressure within the fruit.
- Sudden Temperature Swings: Extreme shifts, especially hot days followed by cool nights, can stress the plant and fruit.
- Variety Characteristics: Some tomato varieties simply have thinner skins or are naturally more prone to cracking than others.
- Calcium Deficiency: Calcium is a vital micronutrient responsible for cell wall strength and skin integrity. A lack of it can weaken the skin.
When Do Tomatoes Crack Most Often?
You’ll usually see cracking appear in the middle to late growing season, when the fruit is actively growing and ripening. The risk significantly increases after heavy rainfall or during heatwaves.
Can You Still Eat Cracked Tomatoes?
Yes, absolutely! If the cracks are small and show no signs of mold, rot, or insect damage, these tomatoes are perfectly safe to eat. However, they won’t store as well as unblemished fruit. It’s best to use them right away in sauces, salsas, stews, or perhaps a homemade batch of chunky tomato soup.
How to Prevent Cracks: Simple Tips for a Better Harvest
- Consistent Watering: Water your tomato plants regularly and evenly. Avoid dramatic “flood and drought” cycles. Applying a good layer of mulch (like straw, grass clippings, or shredded leaves) around your plants will help maintain consistent soil moisture, which is key.
- Choose Resistant Varieties: When buying seeds or plants, look for varieties known for having tougher skins or being “crack-resistant.” Your local garden center or seed catalog can provide recommendations.
- Don’t Plant Too Densely: Give your tomato plants enough space for good airflow. Overcrowding leads to higher humidity around the plants, increasing the risk of cracking.
- Proper Fertilization: Use balanced fertilizers. If you suspect a calcium deficiency, you can add a calcium supplement or use fertilizers specifically formulated for tomatoes, which often include calcium. You can also crush eggshells and add them to the soil, though this takes time to break down.
- Protect from Extreme Weather:
- During heatwaves: Provide shade for your plants using shade cloth or a similar material.
- During heavy rains: If possible, temporarily cover your plants with plastic sheeting or portable shelters to prevent excessive water absorption. This is especially helpful if your plants are in containers.
Understanding why your tomatoes crack and taking these simple preventative measures will go a long way in helping you achieve a bountiful and healthy harvest. And even if some of your precious fruits do show a few cracks, don’t rush to toss them out! They’re still delicious and nutritious, especially perfect for your homemade sauces and preserves. Let’s make sure no good tomato goes to waste!