May 21, 2025, 1:28 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Tomatoes are among the most popular vegetables in gardens and on plates. It’s all the more surprising when you cut one open and suddenly find small green sprouts inside—almost as if the tomato is continuing to grow from within. myHOMEBOOK gardening expert Franka Kruse-Gering explains why tomatoes sometimes sprout internally, whether this poses a problem, and how best to handle this unusual phenomenon.
Tomatoes that are sprouting from the inside may seem otherworldly at first glance. When cutting open such a specimen, you might need to take a second look. Many people wonder at that moment: Is this still normal? Can I still eat the tomato? And: What do I do with these sprouts? But it’s not just tomatoes that can sprout from the inside; other vegetables, such as bell peppers or pumpkins, can also experience the phenomenon of vivipary.
Why Tomatoes Sometimes Sprout from the Inside
When you cut open a tomato and see small green shoots inside, it may seem strange at first–but it’s completely natural. This phenomenon is called vivipary, where the seeds begin to germinate while still inside the fruit.
Normally, certain plant substances prevent the seeds in the tomato from germinating while they are still in the fruit. However, when the tomato is very ripe, these substances gradually break down. If it is also warm and humid, the germination process can start inside the tomato.
Occasionally, tomatoes may not contain these substances at all, explains the Foundation for Consumer Protection. These specimens are more likely to sprout from the inside.
Can You Still Eat Sprouting Tomatoes?
A tomato that is sprouting inside is not a problem. You can eat it without any issues—as long as it isn’t moldy. You can also rely on your senses and smell the fruit. If it has an unpleasant odor, it’s better to discard it.
It’s also important to know that sprouting tomatoes taste a bit different. They can be stronger in flavor, sometimes even bitter, and a “grassy” taste is possible.
Can You Plant the Sprouts?
It is possible to grow new plants from the sprouting seeds of the tomato, but it requires some luck, as the sprouts inside the fruit are weakened. For an attempt, carefully remove them from the fruit and plant them in the soil.
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Can You Prevent Tomatoes from Sprouting on the Inside?
Vivipary occurs more frequently in overripe tomatoes or certain varieties, especially if they are stored at room temperature for too long. To avoid this, do not store tomatoes too warmly and use them in a timely manner. Storing them in the refrigerator is an option, but it is usually not recommended because cold can affect the flavor. A cool, shady place is ideal.