can you pick tomatoes when they are green

Yes, tomatoes can be picked when they are green, but it depends on the stage of their maturity. "Mature green" tomatoes, which have a smooth bottom and shiny skin, can be picked and will continue to ripen off the vine indoors. This is often done to avoid frost damage or pests that might ruin the crop if left on the plant. However, "immature green" tomatoes with a dull finish and bumpy bottom may not ripen well if picked too early. Picking tomatoes around the "breaker" stage (when they just start to show color) is common to allow them to ripen indoors while avoiding damage from birds, insects, or cracking due to weather. While vine-ripened tomatoes may have enhanced flavor from sunlight exposure, green tomatoes picked at the right stage can ripen with no significant taste difference if managed carefully indoors.