Tomato Seeds Sprouting Inside: Vivipary Explained

Finding tomato seeds germinating inside a ripe fruit is a phenomenon called vivipary. It occurs when overripe tomatoes are stored at warm temperatures, creating a mini-greenhouse effect.

Why It Happens

• Fruit left on the counter for weeks at warm temperatures
• Seeds break dormancy inside the moist, protective fruit
• Common in store-bought tomatoes that were harvested ripe

The tomato is still edible (though texture may suffer). Vivipary is harmless and fascinating—a reminder that tomatoes are fruits designed to disperse seeds.

Watch a great video on this phenomenon!