Gardening Tips

Growing Green Tomatoes: Tips, Tricks, and Everything You Need to Know

March 12, 2023

Growing Green Tomatoes: Tips, Tricks, and Everything You Need to Know

Are you interested in growing green tomatoes? Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, green tomatoes are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to grow green tomatoes successfully, from choosing the right variety to harvesting and using them in your favorite dishes.

I. Choosing the Right Variety

Before you start growing green tomatoes, you need to choose the right variety. There are many different types of green tomatoes to choose from, including heirloom, hybrid, and determinate or indeterminate varieties.

Heirloom varieties are open-pollinated and have been passed down through generations. They’re known for their unique flavors and colors, but they can be more difficult to grow and may not produce as much fruit as hybrid varieties.

Hybrid varieties are a cross between two different types of tomatoes and are often more disease-resistant and higher yielding than heirloom varieties. They come in a range of colors and sizes, including green tomatoes.

Determinate varieties are bushier and produce all their fruit at once, while indeterminate varieties are taller and produce fruit continuously throughout the season.

When choosing a green tomato variety, consider your climate, growing conditions, and preferred taste. Some popular green tomato varieties include Green Zebra, Aunt Ruby’s German Green, and Evergreen.

Here are a few of the best varieties for growing green tomatoes:

Green Zebra: This heirloom tomato has bright green stripes and a tangy flavor.
Aunt Ruby’s German Green: A large, beefsteak-style tomato with a sweet, mild flavor.
Black Krim: This dark purple tomato has a rich, sweet flavor and is often harvested while still green.
Cherokee Green: A sweet and juicy tomato with a green-yellow color and a slightly tangy flavor.
Mortgage Lifter: A large, meaty tomato with a sweet flavor that can be harvested while still green.

II. Preparing Your Garden

To grow green tomatoes successfully, you need to prepare your garden properly. Choose a spot with plenty of sunlight, as tomatoes need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.

Test your soil’s pH and amend it if necessary. Tomatoes prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. You can amend your soil with lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.

Till your soil to a depth of 12 inches, and add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and structure. This will also help your soil retain moisture, which is essential for growing healthy green tomatoes.

III. Planting Green Tomatoes

Once you’ve prepared your garden, it’s time to plant your green tomatoes. Start by planting them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. This will give your plants a head start and ensure they’re strong and healthy when it’s time to transplant them outside.

When transplanting your green tomatoes, make sure to plant them deep enough so that only the top few sets of leaves are above the soil. This will encourage strong root growth and help your plants develop a sturdy stem.

Plant your green tomatoes at least 2-3 feet apart to allow for air circulation and prevent the spread of diseases. If you’re planting indeterminate varieties, provide support for your plants, such as a trellis or stake, to keep them from sprawling.

IV. Watering and Fertilizing

Water your green tomatoes regularly, especially during dry spells. Tomatoes need at least 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation.

Fertilize your green tomatoes with a balanced fertilizer that’s high in phosphorus, which promotes flower and fruit production. You can also add compost or well-rotted manure to your soil to provide additional nutrients.

Avoid over-fertilizing your green tomatoes, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.

V. Pest and Disease Control

Green tomatoes can be vulnerable to pests and diseases, which can reduce your harvest and even kill your plants.

Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:

Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from your plants and can spread diseases. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Cutworms: These caterpillars can cut through the stem of your plants at ground level, killing them. Use physical barriers, such as collars made of cardboard or aluminum foil, to protect your plants.
Fusarium wilt: This fungal disease can cause your plants to wilt and die. Choose disease-resistant varieties and rotate your crops to prevent the buildup of soil-borne pathogens.
Tomato hornworm: This large green caterpillar can defoliate your plants and destroy your fruit. Handpick and remove them from your plants, or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a natural insecticide.
Early blight: This fungal disease can cause yellowing leaves and dark spots on your fruit. Remove infected leaves and fruit, and use fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.

VI. Harvesting Green Tomatoes

Green tomatoes can be harvested when they’re mature but still firm, usually about 3-4 weeks before the first expected frost. To harvest them, simply twist them gently off the vine, or use a pair of pruning shears.

If you have an abundance of green tomatoes at the end of the season, you can ripen tomatoes indoors. Simply place them in a paper bag with an apple, which will release ethylene gas and promote ripening.

VII. Using Green Tomatoes in Recipes

Green tomatoes are versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Fried green tomatoes: This classic Southern dish involves coating slices of green tomatoes in cornmeal and frying them until they’re crispy and golden.
Green tomato salsa: Mix diced green tomatoes with chopped onions, jalapeños, and cilantro for a tangy and spicy salsa.
Green tomato chutney: Cook chopped green tomatoes with sugar, vinegar, and spices for a sweet and sour condiment that pairs well with cheese and crackers.
Green tomato pie: This twist on classic apple pie involves using green tomatoes instead of apples, along with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Green tomato relish: Combine chopped green tomatoes with onions, peppers, and vinegar for a tangy and savory condiment that’s perfect for hot dogs and hamburgers.

Read More: How to Grow Green Tomatoes Indoors

VIII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can green tomatoes be eaten raw?

Green tomatoes can be eaten raw, but they’re usually more tart and firm than ripe tomatoes. They’re often used in cooked dishes or fried.

How do I know when my green tomatoes are ripe?

Green tomatoes are ripe when they turn red or yellow and become soft to the touch. However, they can also be harvested when they’re still green and used in recipes.

How do I prevent blossom end rot on my green tomatoes?

Blossom end rot is a common problem with tomatoes, where the bottom of the fruit turns black and leathery. It’s caused by a lack of calcium in the soil. To prevent it, make sure your soil pH is between 6.0 and 6.8, and water your plants regularly.

Can I grow green tomatoes in a container?

Yes, green tomatoes can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 5 gallons in size and has good drainage. Make sure to choose a compact or dwarf variety and provide support for your plants.