How to Successfully Grow Tomatillo Plants in Your Garden

Tomatillos, also known as “Mexican husk tomatoes”, are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes such as salsa verde, guacamole, and chili. If you’re a fan of this tangy fruit and want to grow them yourself, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll discuss how to successfully grow tomatillo plants in your garden.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in growing tomatillo plants is selecting the right location for them to thrive. These plants need plenty of sunlight and warm temperatures to produce fruit, so choose a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Additionally, tomatillos prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5-7.5, so consider doing a soil test before planting.

Planting and Watering Tomatillo Plants

When it comes to planting tomatillo seeds or seedlings, timing is everything. Plant your tomatillo seeds in the spring after the last frost, or transplant seedlings outdoors once the soil has warmed up. When planting, space the seeds or seedlings 2-3 feet apart to give them enough room to grow.

Tomatillo plants need consistent moisture but don't like to be overwatered. Water them deeply once a week, or more frequently if the weather is hot and dry. Avoid watering the leaves or stems, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Fertilizing and Pruning Tomatillo Plants

To help your tomatillo plants grow strong and healthy, fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. You may also want to prune your plants to promote better airflow and prevent disease. Remove any yellow or diseased leaves and cut back any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

Harvesting and Storing Tomatillos

Tomatillos are ready to harvest when their husks have turned brown and papery and the fruit inside is firm and green. Simply twist off the fruit, remove the husks, and rinse the tomatillos under cool water. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for later use.

A mature tomatillo plant with ripe fruits.

In conclusion, growing tomatillo plants can be a fun and rewarding experience for any gardener, especially those who enjoy using this flavorful fruit in their cooking. By following these simple tips, you can successfully grow tomatillos in your own backyard and enjoy fresh, delicious fruit all season long.

Growing Tomatillo Plants, Tomatillo Seeds, Pruning Tomatillo Plants, Harvesting Tomatillos