The Black Krim tomato is an heirloom variety known for its complex flavor and deep, dusky coloration. Unlike common red tomatoes, this “black” variety presents a unique challenge for gardeners because the traditional visual cue of bright red skin does not apply. Black Krims develop a sweet, slightly smoky, and mildly salty flavor profile that is fully realized only when the fruit ripens properly on the vine. To harvest this variety at its peak, one must use a combination of subtle visual and tactile indicators.
The Unique Color Profile
The ripening process of a Black Krim tomato involves a transition from a dull, muddy green to a deep, mahogany or reddish-purple hue. The skin shifts from a matte surface to one that is slightly glossy or has a subtle sheen when fully mature. This indicates the fruit has achieved its maximum content of sugars and flavor compounds.
A unique characteristic of this variety is the “green shoulders,” the area around the stem end that often remains a dark olive-green shade even when the rest of the tomato is ripe. This is a normal genetic trait and should not be mistaken for unripeness. Coloration can vary based on local conditions, with warmer climates often producing a darker, more purple-black color, while cooler regions may result in more of a dusky rose and chocolate tone.
The darkest, most intense coloration tends to accumulate where the fruit receives the most sun exposure. While the overall skin color is your first guide, focus on the bottom half of the fruit, which should show a uniform shade of dark red or deep purple. The subtle change in light reflection from the skin is often a more reliable indicator than the exact shade of the fruit.
Feel and Texture Indicators
Once visual color cues are met, confirming ripeness requires a gentle tactile test. A ripe Black Krim tomato will feel heavy for its size, due to the increased water and juicy flesh content. This dense weight indicates that the fruit is full and ready for harvest.
The skin should yield slightly to very light pressure, feeling tender but not soft or mushy. The slight give confirms the internal flesh has softened sufficiently. If the tomato feels hard and unyielding, it needs more time on the vine.
A fully ripe Black Krim should detach from the vine with minimal resistance, separating with a slight upward twist or a gentle tug. The stem should release easily at the joint. If the tomato requires a forceful pull, harvesting it prematurely will compromise the final flavor.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling
To remove the ripe fruit, use clean gardening shears or snips rather than pulling the tomato by hand. This prevents accidental damage to the vine and ensures the fruit remains intact. The best time to harvest is during the cool morning hours, after the dew has dried but before the sun fully warms the fruit.
If you are expecting a severe storm or frost, Black Krims can be picked slightly under-ripe. These can be allowed to finish ripening indoors, though the flavor will be fuller if they ripen on the vine. To ripen indoors, place them at room temperature in a single layer, out of direct sunlight.
Never store harvested Black Krim tomatoes in the refrigerator, as the cold temperatures will quickly degrade their delicate flavor and texture. Instead, keep them at room temperature, away from direct heat or light. Consume the fruit within a week of harvest.