Monsoon Rain Is Cracking Tomato Crops, Here's How Farmers Can Stop the Losses

Heavy July rain followed by sudden sunshine is causing tomato fruits to split open in the fields, cutting into farmers' earnings. Agriculture expert Mansukh Lal Kushwaha explains why it happens and how to prevent it.

Every monsoon, tomato growers face the same frustrating cycle, fruits splitting open from the inside just before they are ready to be picked. In Sidhi, July brings alternating spells of heavy downpour and sudden sharp sunshine, and that swing is exactly what is punishing tomato crops this season. Cracked fruit not only look unappealing but also fetch far lower prices in the market, so despite months of effort, farmers end up losing out on fair returns.

Agriculture expert Mansukh Lal Kushwaha explains that the root cause of the cracking lies in sudden shifts in soil moisture. When farmland stays dry for a stretch and is then hit by intense rain all at once, the plant's roots absorb a large volume of water in a short span. That surge causes the inner flesh of the fruit to expand rapidly, but the outer skin cannot stretch at the same pace. This mismatch is what tears the fruit open from within.

Boron deficiency plays a role too
According to Kushwaha, the second major reason behind the problem is a shortage of boron, a micronutrient in the soil. Boron keeps a plant's cells strong and flexible, which in turn helps the fruit's skin withstand internal pressure. During spells of continuous heavy rain, boron and other micronutrients get washed away from the topsoil. When plants are left without enough boron, the tomato's skin turns weak, and even a small rise in moisture is enough to make the fruit split.

This is why Kushwaha advises farmers to keep water management in the field balanced. Fields should neither be allowed to waterlog nor be left to dry out completely. Along with proper irrigation, having an adequate drainage system in place is just as important, so that soil moisture stays consistent and fruits are not subjected to sudden pressure.

What to do once cracking has already begun
If fruit cracking has already started in a field, the advice is to mix 2 grams of boron per litre of water and spray it evenly across the plants and fruits. This spray can bring the cracking problem under considerable control. Alongside this, using calcium nitrate is also said to be highly beneficial. Adequate calcium availability strengthens the outer skin of the fruit, which lowers the chances of rot or splitting at the base of the tomato.

Experts also point out that mulching the field delivers significant benefits. Mulching helps soil retain moisture for longer, softens the direct impact of heavy rain on the ground, and prevents sudden swings in temperature. This gives plant roots a more stable environment to grow in, which improves overall plant development and reduces the likelihood of fruit cracking.

Don't wait for tomatoes to turn fully red
Kushwaha also advised farmers not to wait until tomatoes turn completely red before harvesting them. As soon as the fruit takes on a pink or light red shade, it should be picked. A fruit that stays ripening on the plant for longer is far more likely to crack once rain hits, since its skin is already weaker and cannot withstand extra moisture. Looking ahead, farmers should opt for improved and hybrid varieties that have thicker skin and are more tolerant to cracking, which can significantly cut down on this problem over time.

What this means for you
The advice is aimed squarely at farmers growing tomatoes through the monsoon.

• Across India: Tomato growers dealing with monsoon rain can cut down cracking-related losses by using boron spray, balanced irrigation and mulching.
• In Sidhi: Farmers here, who are contending with erratic July rain and sudden sunshine, can secure better market prices by harvesting on time and applying the right nutrients.

Questions & Answers

1. Why do tomato fruits crack?
Sudden changes in soil moisture and a shortage of the boron micronutrient cause tomato fruits to crack.

2. What spray helps prevent cracking?
A solution of 2 grams of boron per litre of water sprayed evenly on plants and fruits is recommended.

3. Does calcium nitrate help as well?
Yes, using calcium nitrate strengthens the fruit's outer skin and lowers the risk of rot or splitting.

4. What benefit does mulching offer?
Mulching keeps soil moisture stable for longer, softens the impact of rain, and prevents sudden temperature swings.

5. When should tomatoes be harvested?
Farmers should pick tomatoes as soon as they turn pink or light red instead of waiting for them to fully ripen.

6. Who gave this advice?
The advice comes from agriculture expert Mansukh Lal Kushwaha.

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