August 25, 2023, 2:55 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
As summer slowly bids farewell and autumn approaches, tomatoes occasionally burst. But why does this happen?
There are various reasons why tomatoes suddenly burst. In many cases, the weather change is simply to blame. After a prolonged dry spell, if there is suddenly damp, cool weather, the pressure on the roots often cannot adjust quickly enough. The roots then absorb more water than the leaves can release through evaporation. As a result, an overpressure builds up in the tomatoes, causing them to burst.
Hobby gardeners can try to prevent this by watering less during changing weather conditions and cushioning temperature fluctuations with protection, such as using coconut mats or fleece.
Other Reasons Why Tomatoes Burst
If flat cracks are visible on the tomatoes, they have received too much sun. It is advisable to ensure adequate sun protection to prevent this. Star-shaped cracks indicate insufficient nutrient supply, while many smaller cracks suggest that wet tomatoes dried too quickly on hot days and therefore burst. Here, protection from rain can be the solution.
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When tomatoes burst, hobby gardeners must act quickly and harvest the fruits promptly. Otherwise, they will mold and rot, making them unsuitable for consumption. Those who harvest the affected fruits immediately can use them without concern. However, they should be checked for pests or small insects beforehand.
Stone Fruit Can Burst Too
Not only tomatoes burst under certain conditions, but stone fruit can also be affected. This usually happens with cherries or plums when rain falls after a dry period before harvest. During the dry, hot summer months, the fruit skin loses elasticity. When rainfall occurs, the fruits absorb more water, causing the skin to burst.
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If the cracks are more crescent-shaped, they indicate feeding damage caused by birds. In both cases, hobby gardeners should quickly harvest the fruits, inspect them, and then consume or use them without concern.