To tell you the truth, have you ever been in your garden or in the bottom of your supermarket bag and plucked out what appeared to be a tomato that was wonderfully juicy and plump? and then, all of a sudden! There is a hole. Simply sitting there as if it were the owner of the place. I don’t know about you, but when I hear your name, my initial reaction is to tremble slightly and ask it in a low voice, “What exactly are you?”
But let’s take a moment to catch our breath before we throw that poor tomato into the compost pile and then walk away in a dramatic manner (guilty). Despite the fact that they can be unpleasant at times, holes in tomatoes are actually rather frequent, and the causes behind them are also quite fascinating. However, they can be fixed. If you cultivate your own plants, you have most likely witnessed this peculiarity making an unwelcome appearance.
I will explain to you why this occurs, what it may mean for your darling tomato kids, and what you can actually do to prevent it from happening in the first place.
The question is, what exactly causes holes in tomatoes?
First things first: the tomato was pierced, bitten, or munched on by something. Let’s start with the obvious. There was no chance that it would occur. One of these three culprits is responsible for the majority of the time:
1. Insects, also known as your smallest and most sworn enemy
The worst offenders is this one in particular. You name it: tomato fruitworms, hornworms, stink bugs, beetles, and everything else. They are all out here acting as if your garden is a feast that is open around the clock.
During one particular summer, I was finally able to get my tomato plants to blossom into beautiful plants. One morning, when I was watering them, I noticed a large green hornworm sitting motionless on a limb, as if he had just paid his rent. Not only had he consumed a few leaves, but he had also established himself inside a tomato. He had successfully made himself at home. I was utterly shocked. Does it impress you? However, the majority of them were terrified.
These bugs chew or bore holes in tomatoes that range from very small to quite large, leaving behind a mess and probably some damage on the inside of the tomato. What is the real deal? There are instances when the exterior appears to be in good condition… until you cut it open.
2. Birds or squirrels (since squirrels can be known to be jerks at times)
Until they become less adorable, birds and squirrels are adorable. With just a few pecks here and a nibble there, your tomato will take on the appearance of having been used for target practice before you know it. Birds are particularly drawn to red fruit that is maturing, and if you are experiencing dryness, it is possible that they will be pecking at your tomatoes in an attempt to find water.
A helpful hint: if you notice peck marks near the top of the fruit and the fruit is largely untampered with, it is most likely the result of a bird. But what if half of the tomato is gone? Put the blame on a squirrel.
3. Damage to the body or the development of problems
At other times, it is not even a nuisance. Stress from the weather, improper treatment, or even internal problems such as blossom end rot or something called catfacing (yeah, that is a real thing) could be the cause of this condition. I am aware that it is a peculiar name. The tomato flesh, however, may develop malformations and holes as a result of this.
If you are observing unusual scars, craters, or holes on tomatoes that appear to be more like growth defects than bite marks, you should investigate the possibility of catfacing tomatoes. During the blossoming stage, it is typically brought on by cold temperatures, and it is surprisingly prevalent.
Consuming a tomato that has a hole in it: Is It Safe to Do So?
There is a question that is worth a million dollars: can you still consume it?
Perhaps is the short answer.
If the hole is small, there are no insects remaining inside (which is disgusting), and the inside of the tomato appears to be fresh (there is no mould, no sliminess, and no scents that are off-putting), then the answer is probably yes, it is safe to consume. To use the remaining material, simply cut around the damaged area.
On the other hand, if the hole is huge, wet, mouldy, or generally gives off the vibes of a horror movie, what should you do? Discard it. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Once upon a time, I made the error of attempting to save a tomato that had what appeared to be a very little hole on its surface. Evidently, it was a tunnel all along. Also, I’ll just state that there was motion inside the building. I let out a yell. A scream that sounds like you dropped it and fled away. An important lesson
Advice on How to Avoid Having Holes in Your Tomatoes
Okay, now that we’ve dealt with the emotional fallout of the hole-in-the-tomato incident, let’s talk about how to avoid problems in the future. Because, sincerely, why? It would be impolite to let your best tomatoes be eaten by birds or insects.
1. Examine your plants on a scheduled basis.
I know, I know—it’s easier to say than it is to do when life is so hectic. On the other hand, even a cursory examination on a regular basis can prevent pests from wreaking havoc on your crop and causing catastrophic damage. Take a look under the leaves for any eggs, droppings, or leaves that have been nibbled.
2. Evenly water your plants with water.
Interestingly, inconsistent watering can also contribute to problems like as cracking and other vulnerabilities in the ecosystem. The fruit may split if it is subjected to sudden surges of water, particularly after a period of periods of drought. And the splits? It’s almost as if they’re throwing open the door to bacteria and insects.
If you have ever spent time dealing with tomatoes that have split, you are aware of how frustrating it can be. Have a look at these straightforward suggestions for preventing tomatoes from splitting so that you can get ahead of the game.
3. Hang netting or fabric from the garden.
When it comes to warding off birds and squirrels, this is my go-to method. All you need to do is place some lightweight mesh over your plants and drape it over them. This will make you feel like a tomato bodyguard. In addition, your fruit is protected without causing any harm to the animals.
Natural deterrents and companion plants are also important.
When placed close to your tomatoes, basil, marigolds, and garlic have the ability to ward off certain insects. Additionally, it imparts a wonderful aroma to your garden. What a win-win situation!
5. Try to keep things tidy.
What about rotten fruit, leaves that have fallen, and weeds that have grown out of control? For pests, they are comparable to a high-end lounge. Maintaining a tidy environment surrounding your tomato plants is an effective way to deter squatters.
Then… What Should You Do If You Discover a Hole in the Ground?
The straightforward strategy is as follows:
Take a look at the tomato. Check for any indications of insects, mould, or general unpleasantness.
Make a cut in it. If the interior appears to be in good condition, cut around the damaged part and use the excess.
Get rid of it if you have doubts about it. If it turns out to be mushy, smells strange, or gives you the creeps, you shouldn’t risk it.
Take a look at the plant. It is possible that other tomatoes will also have holes if one of them does.
Address the issue at hand. Take action once you have identified the most likely source, such as removing pests, adding deterrents, repairing irrigation, and so on.
Despite the fact that discovering a hole in your tomato could be a little unpleasant or disheartening, it is not the end of the world by any stretch of the imagination. The vast majority of the time, it is merely an indication that something in the ecosystem of your garden requires some minor adjustments. A little bit more care should be paid to watering. Perhaps some kind of pest control. Alternatively, it could be a squirrel with a negative attitude.
Whatever the case may be, you are now aware of what actions to take, what to search for, and how to prevent it from happening again. Tomatoes are a vegetable that require a lot of care and attention at times, but the result is well worth the effort. Particularly when you have successfully cultivated them yourself.
And, hey, if everything else fails,