Introducing how to ripen green tomatoes using the Bag/Box Method! We absolutely love fried green tomatoes, but depending on how many tomatoes are left on the vine, even that love knows its limits. So, what do you do with all those other green tomatoes? You may leave them on the vine and there are a host of methods to utilize there, but let’s say they are already off the vine. Now what?
Steps to Ripen Green Tomatoes
Pick the Tomatoes Before the First Big Frost
Pick the Tomatoes Before the First Big Frost – All your other efforts will be in vain if you don’t get your unripened tomatoes off the vine. When the weather shifts, you’ll have to finish the ripening process indoors. Pick tomatoes carefully as to not bruise or blemish. Discard any with bruises or blemishes. They won’t ripen and could even pose a threat to your other tomatoes (mold is no tomatoes friend!). *Leave the stem on for now – this will assist with the ripening process.
Wash and Dry After Picking
Wash and Dry After Picking – Wash and dry each tomato before you start the ripening process. Removing any dirt or mold spores is of the utmost importance (mold is a friend to no tomato!). Towel dry after washing. Make sure they are truly dry before moving to the next step.
Place in a Paper Bag/Cardboard Box
Place in a Paper Bag/Cardboard Box – Select whichever will contain your tomatoes (only you know how many you have, right?).
Add an Apple or Banana
Add an Apple or Banana (to the bag or box) – Both apples and bananas naturally produce ethylene, the chemical that makes plants ripen. While tomatoes produce their own ethylene, both apples and bananas will help speed up the process. *Use a banana that is slightly under-ripe/still has green ends. A brown banana won’t produce any more ethylene.
Seal the Box
Seal the Box – That’s right, tighten that bad boy up! Tomatoes need an ethylene-rich environment to ripen properly. So, seal the container you’re using. *Make sure the container is not airtight or too tight to open. You’ll still have to check every day for signs of rotting, bruising, or mold growth. So, make sure you can open the container easily.
Check Tomatoes Daily for Signs of Mold or Rot
Check Tomatoes Daily for Signs of Mold or Rot – Just as compost is a gardeners best friend, mold is the enemy! Remove any tomatoes with dark spots or visible mold. They will only harm the other tomatoes and prevent further ripening.
What is your favorite method to ripen green tomatoes?
Leave us a comment or drop us a line! We are always looking to expand our knowledge base and try new methods that support sustainable gardening habits. Thank you for reading and have a great day!