Fruit Cracking

• Radial cracks radiating outward from the stem end of tomatoes
• Concentric cracks circling the fruit shoulder
• Cracks may be shallow and cosmetic, or deep enough for secondary rot to enter
• Often appears after a rainstorm or heavy irrigation following a dry period
• More common on large-fruited varieties and as fruit approaches full color

Fruit cracking is a physiological disorder caused by rapid water uptake in the fruit skin after a period of moisture stress. When the inner flesh expands faster than the skin can accommodate, the skin splits. It tends to happen on fruit approaching maturity, when skin flexibility has decreased. Hot, dry weather followed by a sudden soaking is the classic trigger.

1. 01Water consistently and deeply throughout the season — avoid letting soil get bone dry between waterings
2. 02Mulch around plants to buffer soil moisture swings
3. 03Harvest fruit at the breaker stage (first blush of color) and ripen indoors during periods of expected heavy rain
4. 04Plant crack-resistant varieties: 'Mountain Fresh,' 'Celebrity,' and many modern hybrids are specifically bred for crack tolerance
5. 05Avoid overhead irrigation; drip or soaker hose allows more controlled water delivery

Cracking usually doesn't warrant an extension call, but if you're seeing widespread cracking on small-fruited varieties in a season without obvious moisture swings, an extension advisor can help assess whether nutrient balance or calcium might be a secondary factor.

• Tomato Fruit Cracking— University of Minnesota Extension
• Cracking and Catfacing in Tomatoes— Clemson Cooperative Extension