Understanding Tomato Splitting

Tomato splitting can occur at any stage, whether green or ripe. If you grow tomatoes, you may have seen them split overnight, ruining your plans for a perfect BLT. Here’s what you need to know about why tomatoes split, how to prevent it, and whether split tomatoes are still edible.

Why Do Tomatoes Split?

Causes of Splitting

Tomatoes split mainly due to inconsistent watering. Rapid fluctuations in water supply—such as a dry spell followed by heavy rain—cause the fruit to crack. The sudden influx of water makes the insides of the tomatoes expand faster than the outer skin can keep up, leading to splits.

Types of Cracks

There are two main types of tomato cracks:

• Vertical Splits: These extend from the top to the bottom of the fruit.
• Concentric Splits: These form around the stem, often seen in large heirloom varieties.

How to Prevent Tomato Splitting

Maintain Consistent Moisture

To avoid splitting, keep your tomato plants consistently moist. This helps minimize the impact of sudden rainstorms, reducing the risk of split tomatoes.

Watering Tips

• Regular and Deep Watering: Tomatoes need about an inch of water per week. Water every two to three days during summer. Use the finger test to check soil moisture.
• Water the Base: Aim water at the base of the plant to avoid disease spread from splashing soil onto the leaves.
• Early Harvest: Pick tomatoes before storms. Ripen them indoors to reduce pest damage.

Additional Preventive Measures

• Mulch: Apply a two- to three-inch layer of organic mulch. This helps maintain even soil moisture and reduces splitting.
• Choose Resistant Varieties: Look for varieties labeled as crack-resistant. Many hybrids are less prone to splitting.
• Ensure Good Drainage: Use raised beds or containers with drainage holes to handle excess water. Feed with organic fertilizer to compensate for nutrient leaching.
• Proper Fertilization: Use balanced, slow-release fertilizers. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excess nitrogen, which can lead to cracking.

What to Do When Tomatoes Split

Immediate Actions

Harvest split tomatoes promptly to prevent rot and insect damage. Inspect them for signs of insects or rot. Discard any that smell sour or ooze.

Edibility Check

Soft tomatoes are likely rotting and should not be eaten. Consume or cook split tomatoes quickly as they won’t store well.

FAQs

What Causes Bottom Rot?

Blossom-end rot is caused by calcium deficiency, often due to inconsistent soil moisture.

Do Cracks Mean Overwatering?

Cracks can result from both overwatering and underwatering. Other factors include soggy soil, calcium deficiency, and excessive sun.

What Deficiency Causes Cracking?

Calcium deficiency in the soil leads to cracking. Using tomato fertilizer can help increase calcium levels.

Is It OK for Tomato Plants to Touch?

No, overcrowded tomato plants can lead to poor airflow and increase the risk of disease, especially in humid or rainy weather.