Tomato splitting is a common problem for gardeners, especially when the fruits are left on the vine for too long. Splitting occurs when the tomato absorbs too much water and the skin can’t stretch to accommodate the extra moisture, resulting in a split or cracked tomato. While this can be frustrating, there are a few things you can do to prevent tomato splitting.
1. Choose the Right Variety – Some varieties of tomatoes are more prone to splitting than others. Look for varieties that are known to be less susceptible to splitting, such as Early Girl, Better Boy, and Celebrity.
2. Water Consistently – Make sure you are providing your tomato plants with consistent water. If you water your plants too much or too little, this can lead to splitting.
3. Mulch – Mulching around the base of your tomato plants can help to keep the soil moist and prevent the fruits from absorbing too much water.
4. Prune – Pruning your tomato plants can help to reduce the amount of fruit that is on the vine. This can help to reduce the amount of water that is absorbed by the fruits, thus preventing splitting.
5. Harvest Early – If you wait too long to harvest your tomatoes, they are more likely to split. Keep an eye on your tomatoes and harvest them when they are still slightly green.
By following these tips, you should be able to prevent tomato splitting and enjoy a bumper crop of delicious tomatoes.
