How do I ripen green tomatoes that must be harvested before frost?

Theresa Wyatt
by Theresa Wyatt
  5 answers
  • Michelle Leslie Michelle Leslie on Oct 16, 2018

    Perhaps this video will help Theresa - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49K8Q3UttVk. And for those that don't ripen you could always use them to make one of these delicious recipes - https://www.thespruceeats.com/recipes-using-green-tomatoes-3057091

  • Mogie Mogie on Oct 16, 2018

    • In a cardboard box: Line the box with newspaper (or use fruit cardboard if it came from a grocery store) and place the green tomatoes on top in a single layer with a little space between each. Cover with another single layer of newspaper and leave somewhere warm. Check regularly. Another variation of this method is to place the tomatoes in a wooden drawer although you would be lucky to find a spare drawer in my house!
    • In a paper bag: Put 5 -10 tomatoes in a paper bag with a ripening banana, apple or tomato and leave in a warm place. Periodically open it up to check for any that show signs of mould or rotting.
    • Large glass jars or plastic bags: Another way to concentrate the effect of ethylene involves placing 2-4 large tomatoes in a jar or bag along with a ripening fruit and then sealing it. However, the combination of moisture and warmth can encourage mould so it is usually best to put holes in the bag or regularly open and check the jar.
    • Hang up the whole plant: Useful at the end of the season when a frost is forecast, the whole tomato plant can be gently pulled up and then hung upside down in a garage or cellar where temperatures will remain above freezing. This is said to produce better flavoured tomatoes than the other methods.


  • 1401470 1401470 on Oct 16, 2018

    Harvest, bring them indoors and let them sit in the sunlight

  • Kate Kate on Oct 16, 2018

    We would make green tomato relish. Onions, cabbage, green tomatoes, red and green peppers. Makes a sweet relish that is great in tuna salad, potato salad and on burgers.

  • Pat Lilak Pat Lilak on Oct 16, 2018

    I vote for the method of bringing the whole plant in, hanging it in the garage or basement. I have done this several years and it is a wonderful treat to go downstairs and pick ripe tomatoes for dinner!