How long can a ripe tomato stay on the plant

[moogie]

So of course it is just when I am about to go on holidays that my tomatoes are starting to ripen. Although sharing with people/garden care has been arranged, I was wondering how long a ripe tomato could stay on the plant or be kept after being plucked without well, turning bad. I could ask people to maybe turn them into sauce for me but I don't want to over use their kindness.

I would like to have a few waiting for me when coming back home in two weeks.

So how long?

[pumpy]

it's a difficult one. depends on variety etc. Howabout leaving instructions, & take a chance on whats left when you return. Next time, consider taking your toms on hol with you, & don't be so bloomin' selfish!!

[ina]

Maybe you can pick at least some of them semi-ripe and store them in a cool place indoors?

[Millymollymandy]

Either let whoever is going to do all the watering have them as a thankyou present,

or

Ask them to pop the tomatoes into the freezer for you. That's what I've always done when I've gone away. They can eat some and freeze the rest then you can make tomato sauce/soup/whatever with the frozen toms! Plus the skins slide off really easily when they've been frozen!