Ever picked a tomato only to find a hole in it? While your first instinct might be to toss it, understanding what causes these holes can help you prevent future damage and possibly still enjoy part of the fruit.

Most holes in tomatoes are caused by pests such as hornworms, stink bugs, or beetles, which chew or bore into the fruit. Birds and squirrels also frequently damage ripening tomatoes—birds tend to peck small holes, while squirrels take larger bites.

Sometimes, holes or scars aren’t from pests at all. Internal issues like blossom end rot or catfacing, a deformity from temperature swings during flowering, can cause surface damage that looks like pest activity.

Can you still eat a tomato with a hole? It depends. If the hole is small, there’s no sign of bugs, mold, or a foul smell, you can safely cut away the damaged area and use the rest. But if the tomato smells bad, is moldy, or has a large hole, it’s best to discard it.

Preventing holes starts with early detection. Check plants regularly for pests, especially under leaves. Hand-pick any insects before they spread. Keep watering consistent to avoid fruit cracking, which attracts bugs.

To deter animals, cover plants with bird netting or garden fabric. You can also try companion planting—adding basil, marigolds, or garlic near your tomatoes to naturally repel pests.

Keep your garden clean by removing fallen fruit and debris. If you spot one hole, inspect nearby tomatoes. Early action helps protect your harvest.