Tomato Splitting After Heavy Rain: Salvage and Prevention

V-shaped splits from sudden water uptake = fruit absorbed too much water too fast. Current fruit will split — pick at first color now.

Future Prevention: Raised Beds

• Frame with ACQ-treated lumber or cedar (20+ years)
• Fill with amended soil (compost, leaves, peat)
• Superior drainage prevents flooding
• Intensive planting saves space
• Continuous soil building

Wood Safety

Avoid arsenic (CCA) or creosote-treated wood. ACQ uses borate — non-toxic to humans/plants. Unframed beds erode; framed worth the effort.

This rain event is a one-time loss. Raised beds solve it permanently.