Tomatillo

Tomatillos grow in well-drained soil near pH 6.0-7.0 with compost and modest fertilizer. Plant at least two seed-grown plants for reliable cross-pollination, and support their spreading branches before fruit becomes heavy.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Even moisture; about 1 in/week including rain

Spacing

24 in

First harvest

70–90 days

Tips

• Start seed indoors 6-8 weeks before transplanting and set plants 2-3 feet apart after cold nights end.
• Water deeply when the top inch of soil dries, keeping moisture even as husks fill.
• Install sturdy cages at planting and avoid heavy nitrogen feeding that encourages foliage over fruit.
• Check for flea beetles and three-lined potato beetle larvae feeding on leaves.
• Pick firm fruit when it fills the husk and the husk begins drying or splitting.