Why do tomatoes divide when grown? Solving the mystery
There is nothing more disappointing for a gardener than diligently tending tomato plants and then discovering that some of the tomatoes have burst. So why do tomatoes divide when grown? Many breeders are scratching their heads. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the causes of this all-too-common occurrence and how you can prevent it in your own garden.
Uneven watering of tomato seedlings
One of the main causes of cracked tomatoes is irregular watering. When plants do not receive enough water and there is a sudden burst of moisture, tomato skins cannot expand evenly, leading to cracks. To prevent this, it is crucial to maintain a constant and adequate level of moisture in the soil.
Proper watering techniques can significantly reduce the risk of tomatoes cracking. While it’s crucial to keep your tomatoes consistently damp, it’s equally crucial not to overwater them.
Deep, even watering: Instead of misting your plants lightly, try to water them so that they penetrate the soil and reach the root zone. This encourages plants to develop deep and powerful root systems that can better tolerate fluctuations in soil moisture. When you water, apply enough water to moisten the top 6-8 inches of soil.
Watering frequency: Consistency is the key to watering tomatoes. Don’t let the soil parched out completely between watering sessions, as this can stress the plants and augment the risk of cracking. Monitor soil moisture levels by checking the soil moisture with your finger. If you feel it’s parched about an inch down, it’s time to water.
Mulching: Applying mulch around the base of tomatoes can facilitate maintain a more even moisture level in the soil. Mulch acts as a protective layer, preventing evaporation and limiting the growth of weeds. Organic mulches such as straw, wood chips or compost can be used to cover the soil around plants, helping to retain moisture and regulate water uptake.
Irrigation methods: Consider using drip irrigation or sprinkler hoses to deliver water directly to the plant root zone. These methods provide a sluggish and constant supply of moisture, which allows for proficient water uptake by plants. Avoid overhead watering as this can augment humidity levels and promote disease development.
Weather considerations: Pay attention to the weather forecast and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. During periods of prolonged drought or high temperatures, it may be necessary to augment the frequency and duration of watering to prevent the soil from drying out excessively.
Rapid growth
Another cause of tomatoes cracking is rapid growth. When plants grow too quickly, the skin may not keep up with internal growth, causing it to crack. To prevent this, avoid excessive fertilization.
While it’s crucial to provide tomatoes with the nutrients they need for fit growth, over-fertilization can cause them to grow too quickly. Excess nitrogen can lead to rapid vegetative growth at the expense of fruit development. This imbalance between plant growth and fruit expansion increases the risk of cracking. Follow recommended tomato fertilization guidelines and avoid excessive nitrogen application.
Variety sensitivity to cracking
Some tomato varieties are more susceptible to cracking than others. Gaunt-skinned varieties or those bred for juiciness are more susceptible to cracking due to changes in moisture levels. Consider choosing varieties that are less prone to cracking, such as those with thicker skin or known for their resistance to cracking.
Hybrid tomato varieties are often bred to exhibit specific traits, including resistance to cracking. These varieties provide better protection against splitting compared to customary varieties. However, there are also customary varieties that have natural crack-resistant properties. Consider both hybrid and customary varieties and read descriptions and reviews to identify those with crack-resistant properties.
By deliberately selecting tomato varieties that are less prone to cracking, you can significantly reduce this problem in your garden.
Overripe fruit
Another common cause of cracked tomatoes is over-ripening. As the fruit matures and approaches peak ripeness, it becomes more susceptible to cracking. This is especially true during periods of weighty rainfall or sudden temperature fluctuations.
Harvesting tomatoes at the right stage can prevent them from splitting. Tomatoes left on the vine too long may be more susceptible to splitting. Harvesting tomatoes just before they are fully ripe can facilitate reduce the risk of them splitting.
Extreme environmental conditions
Environmental factors also play a key role in dividing tomatoes. High temperatures combined with high humidity can create stressful growing conditions for tomatoes, making them more susceptible to cracking.
Provide shade: During periods of intense heat, providing shade for tomatoes can facilitate alleviate the stress caused by high temperatures. Install shade curtains, row covers or create short-lived structures with delicate shade netting. These shade structures will facilitate reduce direct exposure to intense sunlight, preventing excessive heat build-up and reducing the risk of cracking tomatoes.
Adequate ventilation: Good air circulation is crucial to maintaining optimal growing conditions and minimizing stress on tomato plants. Provide adequate distance between plants to ensure adequate air flow. Pruning lower leaves and selectively thinning branches can also improve air circulation in the plant canopy. In greenhouses or enclosed growing rooms, consider using fans or ventilation systems to improve airflow and reduce humidity levels.
Calcium deficiency in tomatoes
Calcium is crucial for the fit development of tomatoes. Insufficient calcium absorption by plants can lead to a condition called flower end rot, in which the lower part of the tomato fruit begins to rot. Although flower end rot itself does not cause cracking, it weakens the fruit, making it more susceptible to cracking under stress. Ensure adequate calcium levels in the soil by regularly testing the soil and applying calcium-rich fertilizers or fertilizers as recommended.
Takeaway on why tomatoes split when grown
Understanding why tomatoes burst while growing allows us to take proactive steps to minimize this frustrating phenomenon. By considering factors such as uneven watering, selecting the best crack-resistant varieties, harvesting at the right time, and managing environmental conditions, we can augment the likelihood of producing attractive, intact tomatoes. With a little extra care and attention, we can enjoy plentiful and crack-free harvests of our tomato plants.
If you want to learn more about the basics, here’s our guide to growing tomatoes.