Question
I've read your articles and fully understand the best ripening is on the vine. Please detail for me the procedure for ripening indoors when a vine breaks and tomatoes and butternut squash are brought in. I would also like to thank you for the time you dedicate to this web site and the information you make available to make our gardening experience a pleasure. Thank You Marianne

Answer
Marianne, thank you for the kind remarks.

The best way to ripen a tomato is to place them two inches apart in a fruit box or some kind of shallow container.  Place the box in a dark location, preferably in a cool basement.  The tomatoes will ripen more evenly this way over a two week period.

The second approach if you want the tomatoes to ripen quickly is to wrap each one individually with newspaper.  Once again, place the wrapped tomatoes in a shallow container or on a level surface in a cool, dry location.  Check the tomatoes every 3-5 days since they will ripen much more quickly than just by storing them unwrapped.

Butternut squash will ripen quite well by placing them on a level surface several inches apart to prevent rotting.  I also place my squash in the basement.  

If you prefer to delay ripening or extend it even further, place the fruit in the back of the refrigerator.  I have had squash ripen over a 3 month period using this method.

I hope this answered your question.  Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike