5 Signs That Your Tomatoes Are Ripe and Ready to Harvest

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Eager to pick your tomatoes?

Don’t rush it!

There are clear signs that they’re ripe and ready.

Learn the top 5 indicators to ensure perfect tomatoes every time.

Let’s get harvesting!

Look For A Deep, Rich Color

Look For A Deep, Rich Color
Image: © mollyshomeguide.com (Visualized and enhanced using AI technology)

One of the easiest ways to tell if your tomatoes are ripe is by their color. You want to see a vibrant, deep hue that’s typical of the variety you’re growing.

Whether it’s red, yellow, or even purple, the color should be full and rich. If the fruit still has a lot of green patches or looks dull, it’s a sign they need more time on the vine.

Feel For A Slight Give

Feel For A Slight Give
Image: © mollyshomeguide.com (Visualized and enhanced using AI technology)

Ripe tomatoes should be firm but give a little when you squeeze them gently. You don’t want them to be too hard or too mushy.

Think of it like testing an avocado—there should be a slight softness that indicates juiciness and ripeness without being overripe.

Check The Smell

Check The Smell
Image: © mollyshomeguide.com (Visualized and enhanced using AI technology)

You can often tell a tomato is ready just by its smell. A ripe tomato should have a sweet, earthy aroma.

If you don’t notice any smell or it smells a bit off, it’s probably not ready to be picked. Trust your nose on this one—it’s often a reliable indicator!

Look At The Shape

A ripe tomato should have a well-rounded shape. Lumps and bumps are normal, but the overall form should be filled out and symmetrical for the most part.

If the tomato is still a bit angular or pointed, it might need a few more days to fully ripen.

Notice The Location

Often, tomatoes at the bottom of the plant ripen first because they get the least amount of sun. As tomatoes ripen, they work their way up the plant.

So, if the ones at the bottom are looking good, check the ones higher up because they might be close to ripe too!

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