Macomb, IL – Gardeners across Illinois are reporting that their tomato plants are taking longer than usual to ripen this summer, with many fruits remaining stubbornly green for weeks.
According to the University of Illinois Extension, weather has played a major role in the stalled ripening. Heavy June and July rains left soils saturated, while lingering smoke and cloudy skies limited light levels. Both conditions reduced potassium uptake in tomato plants, which can delay or disrupt the ripening process.
Extension horticulturist Chris Enroth noted that local rain gauges in the Macomb area recorded over 10 inches of rain during June and July. Excess moisture, he explained, can prevent tomato roots from absorbing nutrients efficiently. Without enough potassium, tomatoes may struggle to change color and could also show signs of uneven ripening.
Temperature has also been a factor. Tomatoes thrive when daytime highs stay between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Prolonged periods above 85 degrees, which were common in Illinois this summer, can halt the production of pigments that give tomatoes their red color.
For gardeners worried about frost later this fall, there are options to ripen fruit indoors. Experts recommend placing tomatoes in a paper bag or wrapping them individually in newspaper to trap ethylene gas, which promotes ripening. Depending on maturity, fruit may turn red within one to five days.
Enroth added that patience is still the best approach. As weather stabilizes in September, most stalled green tomatoes should ripen naturally. “It may take longer than expected, but they usually do turn red,” he said.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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