# 7 Signs Your Vegetables Are Ready to Harvest (And How to Store Them)
As a gardener, there’s nothing more rewarding than the moment when you finally get to taste the fruits (or shall we say, vegetables) of your labor. But how do you know when that moment has arrived? Harvesting your vegetables at the right time is crucial to get the best taste and nutritional value. And once harvested, proper storage is key to prolong their freshness. Thus, understanding the signs that your veggies are ready to be plucked and how to store them is a skill every gardener should master.
1. Tomatoes are bright and firm
When it comes to tomatoes, color is your best clue. A ripe tomato will have a bright, even red color (or yellow, depending on the variety). But don’t just rely on color alone, as some varieties of tomatoes ripen but stay green. Feel the tomato; it should be firm but yield slightly to touch.
When storing tomatoes, remember they don’t like the cold. Refrigeration can make them mushy and dull their flavor. Instead, store them at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Only refrigerate if fully ripe and won’t be used immediately.
2. Cucumbers feel firm and heavy
Cucumbers are ready to harvest when they are firm, heavy for their size, and their skin has turned a deep green. Too big or yellow cucumbers could mean they’re overripe with hard seeds and bitter taste.
To store cucumbers, place them in the fridge’s crisper drawer. They can be stored at room temperature but will ripen quickly and become soft.
3. Bell peppers have a glossy skin
Bell peppers can be harvested when they are green, but if you want a sweeter pepper, wait until they turn red, yellow, or orange. Regardless of color, the skin should be glossy, and the pepper should feel heavy for its size.
Store bell peppers in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. They can last for about 1-2 weeks.
4. Zucchinis are small and tender
Zucchinis taste best when harvested while still small and tender, about six to eight inches long. They should be firm with a glossy skin.
You can store zucchinis in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for about 1 week.
5. Lettuce leaves are vibrant and crisp
Lettuce can be harvested as soon as it’s large enough to use. The leaves should be vibrant in color and crisp.
To store lettuce, wash and dry the leaves thoroughly. Wrap them in a paper towel and store in a plastic bag in the fridge.
6. Carrots have bright tops
You can’t see a carrot’s root in the ground, but you can look at the tops. When the tops are bright and about 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter, the carrots are likely ready.
Carrots should be stored in the coolest part of the refrigerator in a plastic bag with holes to allow air circulation.
7. Sweet corn ears are plump
Sweet corn is ready when the ears have filled out. You can check this by feeling the end of the ear; it should be rounded and plump, not pointed.
Store sweet corn in the refrigerator with the husks on until you’re ready to use them. They should be used within two days for the best taste.