Tomatillo (Heirloom 85 Days)

Fruits resemble Chinese Lanterns. The tomato-like fruit grows to about 2 inches inside a papery husk. Harvest when the Tomatillo is just turning yellow. They will be hard. Can be stored for 1 to 2 months in a cool dry place. Use in Mexican sauces or salsas. Grow as you would tomatoes. Height will be 4 feet, so provide good support. Very prolific. 

PLANTING

Physalis phildelphica

Germination: 7-14 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 75-85ºF. Cooler soil temperatures increase germination time.

Seed Sowing Depth: ¼” deep

Starting Indoors:  8-10 weeks before the last frost. Sow in flats/cells/pots. Provide 75-85ºF soil temperatures. Fertilize the seedlings every 7-10 days with a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer (diluted to ¼ of suggested measurement). Transplant seedlings 24-48” apart after the last frost.

Sowing Outdoors: Not recommended, especially in northern areas

Harvest: Paper husks begin to dry and fruits feel slightly soft. Fruits that are ripe pull easily from the plant. 

Tips: Plant the Tomatillo in fertile soil, amend with compost if needed. It helps to use row cover early in the season, giving the plants extra warmth, especially in the north. Trellis or stake plants for support. Side dress when flowers begin to form. Place some type of cloth under the plants for an easier harvest.