Intro: Cracked tomatoes look alarming but are harmless — and easy to prevent.
1. Water consistently
Irregular watering causes sudden swelling.
2. Mulch the soil
Mulch keeps moisture levels steady.
3. Pick tomatoes earlier
Ripe tomatoes split more easily.
4. Provide shade in heatwaves
Extreme heat causes cracking.
5. When to worry
If the cracks are black or mouldy, remove the fruit.
Summary: Most tomato splitting is caused by inconsistent watering.