Have you ever been in your garden or at the bottom of your supermarket bag and taken out what appeared to be a perfectly juicy and plump tomato? Okay, let’s be straightforward here. and after that, wham! Not a hole. As if it were sitting there like it was the owner of the place. My initial reaction, which I don’t know if it’s the same for you, is to flinch slightly and mutter, “What on earth are you?”
However, before we throw that unfortunate tomato into the compost pile and then walk away in a dramatic manner (guilty), let’s take a moment to reflect. The causes behind holes in tomatoes are actually quite fascinating, even though they can be disgusting at times. However, it is possible to patch these holes. In addition, if you cultivate your own plants, you have most likely witnessed this peculiarity occurring without your permission.
I will explain to you why this occurs, what it may signify for your tomatoes, and what you can actually do to prevent it from happening in the first place.
To begin, what exactly is the reason for holes in tomatoes?
Let’s
Insects, also known as your smallest and most cherished adversaries
To put it simply, this is the most serious offence. There are a wide variety of pests, including tomato fruitworms, hornworms, stink bugs, and beetles. Every single one of them is out here acting as if your garden is a feast that is open around the clock.
I can still vividly recall the year when I finally succeeded in making my tomato plants look absolutely stunning. In the morning, when I was watering them, I noticed a large green hornworm sitting on a limb, as if he had paid his rent with it. He had not only consumed a few leaves, but he had also established himself inside of a tomato. He had both of these things in his possession. It utterly frightened me. And are you impressed? But primarily filled with horror.
These insects destroy tomatoes by chewing on them or by boring holes that range from very small to quite large, leaving behind a mess and probably some harm on the inside. Where is the actual kicker? In some cases, the outside appears to be in good condition, but only when you cut it open.
Birds or squirrels (since squirrels may be jerks at times for whatever reason)
Some animals, like birds and squirrels, are adorable until they are not. With just a few pecks here and a nibble there, your tomato will look as if it was used as a target practice the next thing you know. In the event that you are experiencing drought, it is possible that birds will be pecking at your tomatoes in an attempt to obtain water. Birds are particularly drawn to red fruit that is maturing. A bird is most likely responsible for the peck marks that are located towards the top of the fruit and that are mostly unblemished. If half of the tomato has been consumed? It’s the squirrel’s fault.
Physical damage or issues that are getting worse
There are times when it is not even a nuisance. It could be the result of exposure to the elements, improper treatment, or even internal flaws such as blossom end rot or catfacing (yes, this is a real process). It’s a strange name, I know. However, it has the potential to create malformations and holes in the flesh of the tomato. It is recommended that you investigate the use of catfacing on tomatoes if you observe unusual scars, craters, or holes that appear to be more like growth defects than bite marks. It is a fairly common occurrence that is typically brought on by cold temperatures during the flowering stage.
In the event that a tomato has a hole in it, is it safe to consume it?
Is it still possible for you to consume it? That is the question that everyone is asking.
Quick response: it’s possible. There is a good chance that the tomato is safe to consume if the hole is small, there are no insects still inside (which is disgusting), and the inside of the tomato appears to be fresh. There should be no mould, sliminess, or aromas that are unpleasant. Simply make cuts around the damaged region, and use the remaining material. Having said that, what if the hole is especially huge, wet, mouldy, or if it just gives off the vibes of a horror movie? Toss it out. Always err on the side of caution. Attempting to save a tomato that appeared to have a very small hole on its surface was a mistake that I made once. It ultimately turned out to be a tunnel. Additionally, I will state that there was motion within the building. It was a scream. The kind of scream that would be like “I dropped it and ran.” The lesson from this
Instructions on How to Prevent Holes in Your Tomatoes
Okay, now that we’ve managed to get through our feelings regarding the hole in the tomato, let’s talk about how to prevent it from happening again. Because, in all honesty? Having your best tomatoes destroyed by insects or birds is a really impolite thing to do.
Regularly check on the condition of your plants
It’s easier to say than it is to do when life is hectic, I know that to be true. On the other hand, even a cursory examination on a regular basis can assist you in identifying pests before they cause a complete and utter destruction to your crop. Under the leaves, you should search for eggs, droppings, and leaves that have been nibbled.
Water your plants in a uniform manner.
Additionally, cracking and other vulnerabilities might be caused by erratic watering, which is a peculiar phenomenon. It is possible for the fruit to split if it is subjected to sudden surges of water, particularly after a period of drought. How about splits? Their presence is comparable to that of an open invitation to bacteria and insects. You are aware of how frustrating it is to deal with tomatoes that have split, if you have ever had this problem. If you want to get ahead of that situation, check out these straightforward suggestions for how to prevent tomatoes from splitting.
Employ netting or cloth designed for gardening.
It is my go-to method for preventing birds and squirrels from entering my home. To protect your plants, simply drape some lightweight netting over them and be sure to fasten it. You will have the sensation of being a tomato guardian. In addition, your fruit preserves its quality without causing any harm to the animals.
Natural deterrents and companion planting that comes with them
The presence of garlic, marigolds, and basil in close proximity to your tomatoes can actually deter certain insects. In addition to that, it gives your garden a wonderful aroma. Everyone comes out ahead.
Maintain a tidy environment
How about weeds that have grown out of control, old fruit, and fallen leaves? They are comparable to the best-in-class lounge for bugs. It is important to maintain a tidy environment surrounding your tomato plants in order to deter squatters. Then… When you discover a hole, what steps should you take next?
Now, here is the straightforward strategy: Do a check on the tomato. Keep an eye out for any indications of mould, pests, or general unpleasantness.
Then, cut it open. Cut around the damaged portion and utilise the rest of the material if the interior appears to be in good condition.
Throw it away if you have any doubts about it. In the event that it is squishy, smells strange, or gives you negative vibes, you should not risk it.
Do a check on the facility. If one tomato has holes, there is a possibility that additional tomatoes also have holes.
Deal with the issue at hand. After you have identified the most likely cause, you should take action, such as removing pests, adding deterrents, repairing watering, and so on.
It is possible that discovering a hole in your tomato will be a little unpleasant or disheartening, but it is not the end of the world by any stretch of the imagination. For the most part, it is merely an indication that there is something in the ecosystem of your garden that requires some minor adjustments. Perhaps some additional focus should be placed on watering. Perhaps a little bit of pest control. Another possibility is that it was just a squirrel with a terrible attitude. In any case, you are now aware of what actions to take, what items to search for, and how to prevent it from occurring again. Despite the fact that tomatoes can be a little bit difficult to care for at times, they are absolutely worth the effort. This is especially true when you have cultivated them own.
And hey, if none of that works,
