Fruit cracking is a common physiological disorder that affects the appearance and marketability of vegetables, particularly tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. Cracks typically develop on the shoulder of the fruit near the stem, although cracking may occur elsewhere depending on the underlying cause. Cracks range from shallow surface injuries to deep splits that expose the internal flesh. Deep cracks not only reduce market quality but also provide entry points for secondary pathogens, increasing the risk of fruit rot. 

Several types of cracking may occur. Radial cracks are deep, lengthwise splits that extend outward from the stem end and are often severe enough to make fruit unmarketable. Concentric cracks appear as circular rings around the fruit shoulder near the stem and are generally shallower but still reduce fruit quality and appearance. Irregular cracks develop as random splits around the shoulder, varying in size and depth. 

Other forms of cracking include rain checking and russeting. Rain checking consists of numerous small, superficial concentric cracks across the fruit shoulder, usually associated with periods of high humidity or sudden increases in moisture. Russeting appears as fine, brown, hairline cracks in the fruit cuticle and is typically caused by environmental stresses during fruit development. 

Regardless of the type, cracked fruit should be monitored carefully because damaged tissue is more susceptible to invasion by fungi and bacteria, which can further reduce fruit quality and shelf life.