Quick answer
When Should I Harvest Tomatoes?
The best time to harvest tomatoes is when they have reached their mature color, feel slightly firm but not rock-hard, and release easily from the plant. Tomatoes do not have to stay on the vine until they are completely soft. In fact, picking them a little earlier can help prevent cracking, pests, sunscald, and weather damage.
A few things to try
- Look for the expected ripe color.
- Gently squeeze. A ripe tomato should give slightly but not feel mushy.
- Pick before heavy rain if the tomato is close to ripe.
- Large tomatoes like beefsteaks can often finish ripening indoors.
- Store tomatoes at room temperature for best flavor.
What to watch for
If a tomato is split, damaged, or starting to rot, pick it promptly and check whether it is still good to eat.