Tomatoes crack or split when the fruit’s skin can’t expand fast enough to match a sudden increase in internal water pressure.
Splitting on tomato skins happens after a dry spell followed by heavy rain or irregular watering — the plant takes up water quickly, swelling the fruit until the skin bursts.
It’s most common in ripening tomatoes when the skin is already thinner and more delicate.
What to do about splitting tomatoes
Split tomatoes are still edible if the cracks are fresh and clean — just use them quickly to prevent mold or insect damage.
Salvaging Split Tomatoes
💡 Extra tip: If a heavy rain is expected after a dry spell, harvest any nearly ripe tomatoes in advance and let them finish ripening indoors on the counter — this is the best prevention against splitting.
Recipe for easy and fast fresh Freezer Tomato Sauce - perfect for using up a big batch of split tomatoes (no peeling, no simmering). Click here.
It’s most common in ripening tomatoes when the skin is already thinner and more delicate.
What to do about splitting tomatoes
- Water consistently — Deep water your plants on a regular schedule so the soil stays evenly moist.
- Mulch around plants — A 2–3 inch layer of straw, shredded leaves, or compost helps retain soil moisture and reduce fluctuations.
- Harvest promptly — Pick tomatoes as soon as they’re fully colored to minimize time on the vine in fluctuating conditions.
- Provide even drainage — Avoid letting plants dry out completely, then soaking them heavily.
- Choose crack-resistant varieties — If splitting is a persistent problem, look for cultivars bred for thicker skins and resistance to cracking such as Celebrity, Big Beef, Arkansas Traveler, and Sun Sugar. These varieties have been bread to withstand fluctuation in moisture and temperature.
Split tomatoes are still edible if the cracks are fresh and clean — just use them quickly to prevent mold or insect damage.
Salvaging Split Tomatoes
- Pick Them Immediately - As soon as you notice the split, harvest the tomato to prevent insects, mold, or rot from setting in.
- Rinse & Dry - Gently rinse the tomato under cool water, then pat completely dry with a clean towel.
- Use Quickly - Split tomatoes won’t store well — use them within 24–48 hours.
- They’re perfect for:
- Chopping into salads (cut away any damaged area)
- Cooking into sauces or soups
- Making salsa
- Roasting for freezing or immediate use
💡 Extra tip: If a heavy rain is expected after a dry spell, harvest any nearly ripe tomatoes in advance and let them finish ripening indoors on the counter — this is the best prevention against splitting.
Recipe for easy and fast fresh Freezer Tomato Sauce - perfect for using up a big batch of split tomatoes (no peeling, no simmering). Click here.