Why red tomatoes are green on the inside

If you’re a potato grower (and what self-respecting gardener isn’t?), you know there are a number of problems that can affect this fruit. Some of them can be fought, others are at the mercy of the winds of fate. One of these oddities is that the red tomatoes are green on the inside. Why are some tomatoes green on the inside? And if the tomatoes are green on the inside, are they bad? Read on to find out more.

Why are some tomatoes green on the inside?

Most tomatoes ripen from the inside. Tomato seeds are therefore green because they contain chlorophyll, the plant pigment that gives them a green hue. Chlorophyll allows plants to absorb light energy through a process called photosynthesis. As the seeds ripen, the outer layer hardens to protect the inner embryo. Seeds also become beige or white as they mature. Therefore, a green interior may consist of green seeds. In other words, the tomato may not yet be ripe. This is the simplest explanation when a tomato is red but green inside; the tomato is not ripe inside.

Another reason why red tomatoes that are green inside can be stress, which can be

attributed to more than one thing or a combination of things. Long periods of drought, especially when followed by heavy rains or excessive heat for an extended period of time, can significantly affect tomato production and ripening. In these cases, the nutrition needed by the plant is not adequately transferred within the plant. The end result can be a hard, green to greenish-white inner core with pale fruit walls and green seeds and cavities.

Although Mother Nature’s whims are beyond your control, there are certain things you can do to counteract her whims. Put a layer of mulch to maintain adequate moisture during dry periods. Be sure to use well-draining soil or else: heavy rains. Use a garden hose or drip irrigation system with a timer to ensure regular and timely watering.

Other reasons why a tomato is red but green inside

Defoliation, lack or excess fertilization and insect pests can cause a green interior in tomatoes. Potassium deficiencies cause a disorder called spotted ripening. This usually manifests itself as areas on the outside and inside of the fruit that are not ripening.

Sweet potato whitefly and silverleaf whitefly introduce a toxin into the fruit that prevents proper ripening, although the fruit is usually characterized by a yellow or white skin, as well as the above, and a severe white spot on the inside.

Finally, you might want to change the variety. Rumor has it that this problem is more common in older tomato varieties and that the new hybrids have eliminated this problem.

The best thing is to prepare for next year by covering all the basics. Catch whiteflies with sticky traps, fertilize them regularly and use a drip line and well-drained soil. Then, expect good weather.

Oh, and as for whether the tomatoes are green on the inside, are they bad? Probably not. They may not taste very good, probably because the tomatoes are not ripe inside. They are probably quite sour. Try letting the fruit ripen a little longer on the counter. Otherwise, you could use them as green, fried tomatoes. Or you could dehydrate them. We made dried green tomatoes last year and they were delicious!