Tomatoes are among the most delicate crops, and poor harvesting methods can lead to heavy losses for both farmers and traders. Proper handling, especially during harvesting, is critical to maintaining quality and extending shelf life.
Patrick Kirunda, a tomato farmer from Bumozi village in Bugweri district, says timing is important, the best time to harvest tomatoes is early in the morning or late in the evening when the temperatures are cool.
“This reduces the chances of bruising because the fruits are firm.
Harvesting when the sun is too hot makes them soft and easily damaged.”
Kirunda adds that mature tomatoes should be carefully handpicked using both hands.
“One hand supports the fruit while the other detaches it from the stem. Never pull or force the tomato off. That’s how many people injure the fruit and leave it exposed to rot,” he warns.
Samuel Kyambadde, another tomato farmer in Kabwomero, Zirobwe insists on the importance of using clean and soft containers during harvesting.
“It’s advisable to use plastic crates instead of sacks or metallic basins. Crates allow air circulation and reduce the chances of fruits getting squashed,” he says.
Kyambadde notes that farmers must avoid overfilling containers as that leads to unnecessary pressure on the tomatoes at the bottom, causing bruises and rot.
Hellen Kimbugwe, a vendor at Gayaza market, explains how poor harvesting directly affects their sales.
“Sometimes, we receive tomatoes that are already bruised or leaking juice because of poor handling. Customers reject them immediately,” she laments.
“When farmers mishandle the tomatoes during harvesting, they rot faster, that’s why it’s important to work with farmers who understand post-harvest care.
Kimbugwe stresses that tomatoes should be sorted after harvesting, separating the ripe from the semi-ripe ones, to help traders plan for quicker sales.
