Is it better to pick tomatoes early and allow them ripen off the vine?

No, it is not better to pick tomatoes early and let them ripen off the vine. While tomatoes will continue to ripen after being picked, they will not develop the same level of flavor and sweetness as tomatoes that are allowed to ripen on the vine. Tomatoes get most nutrients and good taste from water, which makes them so juicy. Tomatoes get their water and nutrients from their roots. As they ripen on the vine, the plant is providing water to the tomato.

Tomatoes that are picked early may also be more susceptible to bruising and spoilage. For best results, allow tomatoes to ripen fully on the vine before harvesting.