FAQs 23. Harvesting Tips

1. How do I know when my vegetables are ready to harvest in a vertical tower?

Each crop has a maturity period. Leafy greens like spinach and coriander can be harvested in 25–30 days, while fruiting vegetables like tomatoes or chilies take 50–70 days. Look for size, color, and texture as maturity indicators.

2. What is the best way to harvest leafy greens?

Use a clean pair of scissors or pinch off the outer leaves gently. This allows the plant to continue producing new leaves from the center.

3. How should I harvest root vegetables like radish or carrot?

Water the soil lightly before harvest, then gently pull the plant from the base while loosening the soil with your hand. For hybrid towers, harvest when the top portion of the root peeks out slightly.

4. Can I harvest multiple times from the same plant?

Yes! Many leafy greens are cut-and-come-again, meaning you can harvest multiple times over weeks. Fruiting crops like chillies, tomatoes, and brinjal also produce in cycles if maintained well.

5. Should I harvest in the morning or evening?

Morning harvesting is best, as plants are well-hydrated and firm. Avoid midday when heat can wilt the produce quickly.

6. What tools do I need for harvesting?

Small garden scissors or shears for leafy greens

Hand trowel or gloves for root vegetables

Always use clean tools to avoid plant infection.

7. How do I store my harvest to keep it fresh?

Rinse lightly and store in a cool, ventilated area

Leafy greens can be wrapped in moist cloth or paper and refrigerated

Root and fruiting vegetables can be stored in baskets or trays away from direct sunlight