Cracked tomatoes are much more susceptible to disease. Their cracks are caused by large fluctuations in soil and air humidity.
Why do tomatoes crack on the vine? Everyone who gardens has to deal with this inconvenience. Why does this happen and can it be prevented?
Cracked tomatoes are much more susceptible to disease [Shutterstock]
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If the plant is dry and we suddenly decide to water it abundantly, it begins to take in water in reserve. This leads to the tomato swelling and cracking its skin.
The cause of tomato cracking can also be improper removal of the shoot tips. If our bush has too few leaves, the risk of cracks appearing significantly increases.
The best ways to deal with bursting tomatoes
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How to prevent tomatoes from cracking? First of all, remember to water them regularly with a small amount of water, so that the soil is always adequately moist.
It is also a good idea to choose tomato varieties that are relatively resistant to cracking . These include: Baron F1, Jawor, Koneser F1, Koralik, Rumba Ożarowska and Tamaris F1 .
It is also worth using fertilizers rich in phosphorus and potassium. A good solution is to use nettle slurry. It is an excellent source of nitrogen.
Mulching the soil under tomato bushes will help avoid fluctuations in soil moisture levels. Tomatoes grown in the ground are most susceptible to cracking due to changing weather conditions.
This article was originally published by Onet.
