When to Reap Your Produce - Part 1

Knowing when to harvest your produce is essential for ensuring optimal flavor, texture, and nutrition. Timing can vary depending on the type of fruit or vegetable you're growing. In this article, we'll discuss the ideal times to reap some common produce items.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are best harvested when fully ripe on the vine. Look for vibrant color, firm texture, and a slight give when gently squeezed. Avoid picking tomatoes when they are still green unless you plan to ripen them indoors.

Carrots

Carrots are ready for harvest when their tops reach about 1 inch in diameter. Gently pull them out of the soil, and you'll have sweet and crisp carrots perfect for snacking or cooking.

Strawberries

Strawberries should be picked when fully red and ripe. They should have a glossy appearance and yield slightly to pressure. Harvest strawberries by pinching the stem about 1/4 inch above the fruit.

Broccoli

Broccoli heads are ready to harvest when they are tight and dark green. Cut the main head at a slant leaving about 6 inches of stem to encourage side shoots for later harvests.

Stay tuned for Part 2 where we'll cover more fruits and vegetables and their ideal harvest times!