The riper or more overripe the tomatoes, the more useful they can be.
When a tomato starts to spoil, it’s common to think that its only possible destination is the trash.
But the truth is that these fruits, even when very ripe or even past their prime, can still be reused in creative and sustainable ways, both at home and in the garden.
So, know what to do with overripe or spoiled tomatoes.
Germinate seeds directly from tomatoes
Even if the outside is damaged, the seeds inside the tomato can still grow into new plants.
Simply cut the tomato into thin slices or remove the seeds with a spoon, place it on loose soil in a pot with good drainage, cover it lightly with soil (1 to 2 cm) and keep the soil moist without soaking it.
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Place the pot in a location with plenty of sunlight.
In a few days, the first shoots should begin to appear.
Make natural liquid fertilizer
You can turn rotten tomatoes into a nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer.
Cut the tomatoes into small pieces, place them inside a plastic bottle and add water (it can be regular water or rice water).
Let it ferment for 5 to 7 days in a ventilated place, opening the lid every day to release the accumulated gas.
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After this period, strain the liquid and dilute it in five parts water before watering the plants.
The result is a nutritious fertilizer, ideal for stimulating healthy growth.
Use to degrease pans
The acidity present in tomatoes helps to release accumulated fat in pots and pans.
Cut a tomato in half and rub it directly onto the greasy surface. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse as usual.
It is a natural alternative that reduces the use of harsh cleaning products.
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Important tips:
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- Choose your tomatoes carefully: Avoid using those that show mold or signs of dangerous contamination.
- Use plastic bottles for fermentation: Glass bottles can burst with gas buildup, so choose flexible containers.
- Use fertilizer sparingly: Applying it once or twice a week is enough to avoid excess nutrients in the soil.
- Take advantage of rice water: It is rich in nutrients and enhances the effect of homemade fertilizer.
Before throwing away a tomato that looks unusable, it’s worth considering your options.
With a little creativity, it can be used as fertilizer, for cleaning, or even as a starting point for new seedlings. Sustainable, practical, and economical!
