If you are a grower of tomatoes (and what self-respecting gardener isn’t?), you know that there are any number of issues that can plague this fruit. Some of these we can control, while others are up to chance. One such anomaly is when red tomatoes are green on the inside. Why are some tomatoes inside green? Is it harmful if the tomatoes are green on the inside? Continue reading to find out more.
Why are Some Tomatoes Green Inside?
Most tomatoes ripen from the inside out, hence the tomato seeds are green because they contain chlorophyll, the pigment in plants which gives them a green hue. Chlorophyll permits plants to absorb light energy in a process known as photosynthesis. The outer covering of the seeds hardens as they grow, protecting the inside embryo. When the seeds are mature, they become beige or off white in hue. As a result, a green inside might be green seeds. To put it another way, the tomato may not be ripe yet. This is the simplest explanation when a tomato is red but green inside; the tomato isn’t ripe inside.
Another reason for red tomatoes that are green inside may be stress, which can be attributed to many things or a combination. Long periods of dry spells, especially when followed by heavy rain or excessive heat over an extended period of time, can greatly affect tomato production and maturation. In these circumstances, the nourishment required by the plant is not adequately transmitted inside the plant. The ultimate outcome might be a tough, greenish-white inner core with light fruit walls, green seeds, and cavities.
While Mother Nature’s whims are out of your control, you can do some things to thwart her caprices. Mulch generously during dry weather to keep the soil wet. In the event of severe rainfall, be sure to choose a well-draining soil. Use a soaker hose or drip line irrigation system equipped with a timer to ensure even watering in a timely manner.
Other Reasons a Tomato is Red but Green Inside
Defoliation, under or over fertilization, and insect pests may all cause green interiors in tomatoes. Potassium deficiency causes a condition known as blotchy ripening. This usually manifests as parts of the fruit that aren’t ripening on the exterior and inside.
Sweet potato whiteflies and silver leaf whiteflies deliver a toxin into the fruit that hinders normal ripening; nevertheless, this is frequently characterized by yellow or white skin in addition to the above, as well as significant white blotching on the interior.
Lastly, you might want to change varieties. The rumor is that this disease is more widespread in older tomato types and that it has been bred out of modern hybrids.
Preparing for next year by covering all bases is the best bet. Capture whiteflies with sticky traps, fertilize regularly, and use a drip line and well-drained soil. Then, pray for the best with the weather.
Oh, and are tomatoes awful if they are green on the inside? Very likely not. They may not taste very good, probably because the tomato is not ripe inside. They are most likely somewhat tart. Let the fruit to mature for a little longer on the counter. Instead, you might fry them like green tomatoes. You can also dehydrate them. Last year, we made green dried tomatoes, and they were fantastic!
