Harvest your tomatoes when they begin to change color, showing red, orange, yellow, or purple hues. This allows you to pick slightly underripe tomatoes and let them fully ripen indoors. Alternatively, you can leave them on the vine to ripen completely.
Determining Tomato Ripeness
Knowing when to pick your tomatoes is crucial for optimal flavor and quality. Here's how to tell if they're ready:
- Color Change: The most obvious sign is a change in color. Look for the characteristic red, orange, yellow, or purple hues depending on your variety. They won't always be completely vibrant at harvest.
- Slight Give: Gently squeeze the tomato. A ripe tomato will give slightly to the pressure but not be mushy.
- Shiny Appearance: Ripe tomatoes generally have a glossy and shiny appearance.
Harvesting Methods
You have two main options for harvesting:
- Early Harvest: Pick tomatoes when they just start showing their characteristic color. These can then ripen further off the vine in a cool, dark place.
- Vine Ripening: Leave tomatoes on the vine until fully ripe and intensely colored. This often results in the best flavor, but risks damage from pests or disease.
Tips for Post-Harvest Ripening
If harvesting early, store your tomatoes at room temperature in a single layer. Avoid refrigerating unripe tomatoes, as this can hinder the ripening process.
