Ahead of first frosts, gardeners urged to harvest tomatoes – what to do with green ones
Gardeners are advised to pick tomatoes before the first frosts arrive, since cold damages the fruit. Several methods can help unripe tomatoes ripen after harvesting.
As autumn sets in and the first frosts approach, gardeners are being reminded to harvest their tomatoes in time, since cold temperatures damage the fruit. This applies even to tomatoes that have not yet fully ripened.
What to do with green tomatoes
Green tomatoes can be laid out in a single layer in boxes or placed in paper bags together with an apple or banana. These fruits release ethylene gas, which helps speed up ripening.
If tomatoes are meant to be stored for a longer period, it is recommended to leave the stem attached. This helps the fruit ripen fully even if it was picked while still unripe.
An alternative method – hanging the whole plant
Another way to achieve gradual ripening is to pull up the entire tomato plant, roots and all, and hang it in a cool, dry place such as a shed. The fruit will continue to ripen naturally while still attached to the plant.
