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The silver lining here is that for once, you can truly enjoy the best of both worlds. When your tomato plants start to decline, it’s actually more beneficial to uproot the ailing plants and tidy up your garden. However, that doesn’t signify the end for those green tomatoes still hanging on the vines. In fact, ripening them off the plant is much simpler than you might think!
The Advantages Of Ripening Late-Season Green Tomatoes Off The Vine
Exactly, that’s why removing old plants as they start to decline is the optimal approach. And when you do, it’s also the ideal moment to thoroughly harvest any remaining green or slightly pink tomatoes from those old plants – and then ripen them away from the vine!
How To Ripen Late Season Green Tomatoes Off The Vine
Absolutely, ripening tomatoes off the plant is not only convenient, but it’s also beneficial for the tomato itself. Even at the height of the harvest season, it’s recommended to harvest tomatoes before they fully ripen.
Why? Well, doing so benefits both the plant and the tomato. It aids the plant by conserving energy, allowing it to produce more blossoms and tomatoes. As for the tomato, it keeps it safe from potential harm by pests, excessive heat, sun scald, and other threats.
The truth is, that tomatoes undergo a better ripening process off the vine than on it. With the right combination of airflow, temperature, and humidity, they’ll mature more efficiently than ever.
Contrary to popular belief, direct sunlight isn’t a prerequisite for ripening tomatoes. They actually prefer shade over intense sun. Additionally, they ripen best in conditions of approximately 70 degrees with humidity levels ranging from 80 to 90 percent. Lastly, they require good air circulation.
Fortunately, all of these conditions can be easily recreated off the vine. This late in the season, it opens up the possibility to ripen not only tomatoes that have already started turning but also those that are still green!
Two Tricks To Ripen Late Season Tomatoes – How To Ripen Late Season Green Tomatoes
As you clear out your plants and gather the remaining tomatoes, there are a few straightforward techniques to make the most of your final harvest.
First off, refrain from washing or cleaning the tomatoes at this stage. This step can actually lead to premature rotting before they ripen. Also, exercise care when plucking the fruit to ensure the tops stay intact and free from damage. Remember, the less handling, the better.
Start by removing any tomatoes with blemishes, bruises, or cuts. Additionally, discard those that don’t feel firm to the touch. These won’t have a chance to ripen without rotting, especially late in the season. Next, it’s important to categorize the remaining harvest into two groups – those that are slightly turning and those that are still totally green.
Ripening Tomatoes That Have Started To Turn – How To Ripen Late-Season Green Tomatoes
These green tomatoes can still be ripened off the vine with a few simple tricks.
For tomatoes that have already begun to blush or show slight signs of ripening, the process becomes quite straightforward. Since they’re already in the initial stages of ripening, it requires less effort.
Find a spot that isn’t directly exposed to sunlight and maintains a cooler temperature, ideally with a gentle breeze. Covered porches can serve as excellent locations. Alternatively, an indoor area with a cool but not overly cold atmosphere works well. Again, steer clear of direct sunlight and avoid basements due to potential high moisture levels.
If opting for an outdoor setting, be mindful that animals and pests might be drawn to the tomatoes if they’re not protected. It’s not uncommon for a raccoon or other critters to help themselves with the ripening produce!
Use a wire cooking rack or a similar platform that allows air to circulate both above and below the tomatoes. This promotes even ripening. Avoid placing them directly on metal or wood surfaces, as this can lead to bottom rot. If there’s no natural breeze, consider using a ceiling fan or a small fan.
Running a fan for four to six hours daily will provide the tomatoes with the airflow they need to ripen more quickly. While not mandatory, it does expedite the process. Gently turn the tomatoes each day to encourage uniform ripening. Generally, within 5 to 10 days, depending on how much the tomato has already ripened, you’ll have perfectly ripe tomatoes.
