October may mark the end of the UK’s tomato season, but there’s still a lot to love, and learn about these bright, versatile fruits. From ripening tricks to surprising autumn benefits, here are three fascinating tomato facts to celebrate this colourful crop before winter sets in.
- Tomatoes Can Still Ripen After Harvest
If you’ve picked your tomatoes green before the first frost – don’t worry! Tomatoes are climacteric fruits, which means they continue to ripen after being picked.
- Place them in a paper bag with a ripe banana or apple; these release ethylene gas that helps tomatoes turn red.
- Keep them in a warm, dark spot, around 18–21°C is ideal.
- Avoid windowsills if nights are cold; fluctuating temperatures can slow ripening and cause uneven colour.
- Autumn Tomatoes Are Packed with Antioxidants
Late-season tomatoes, especially those grown in cooler weather, often contain higher levels of lycopene, the powerful antioxidant responsible for their red pigment.
- Lycopene supports heart health and protects cells from damage.
- Cooking tomatoes (in soups, sauces, or stews) actually increases lycopene absorption, especially when paired with olive oil.
- October Is the Perfect Time to Plan Next Year’s Crop
While tomato plants start to fade, October is prime time to think ahead.
- Save seeds from your best fruits for next season, just dry them thoroughly before storing.
- Make notes on which varieties thrived and which struggled.
- If you have a greenhouse or polytunnel, you can experiment with autumn-sown indoor varieties for an early spring harvest.
