Tomatillos are distinct members of the nightshade family, known for their bright, tart flavor and signature papery husk. A staple in Mexican cuisine, particularly in salsa verde, this fruit is prolific and generally simple to cultivate, thriving in warm conditions. This guide details the steps for planting and initial care, ensuring a successful harvest of these unique “husk tomatoes.”
Essential Pre-Planting Requirements
Proper timing is the first step toward a successful tomatillo harvest, as these plants are highly sensitive to cold temperatures. Gardeners typically start seeds indoors approximately six to eight weeks before the final expected frost date in their region. This head start allows the seedlings to develop into robust transplants ready for the garden once the weather warms reliably. The soil temperature must be at least 60°F for the plants to establish themselves and thrive, which usually occurs several weeks after the last frost has passed.
Tomatillos require a location that receives full sun exposure, meaning they need a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal fruit production. The planting site should offer fertile, well-drained soil, ideally amended with aged compost or other organic matter to boost nutrition and moisture retention. A soil pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0, is considered suitable for healthy growth.
Tomatillos are generally self-incompatible, meaning a single plant cannot pollinate itself to produce fruit. To ensure successful fruit set, plant at least two tomatillo plants in close proximity, allowing insects to facilitate the necessary cross-pollination. Planting multiple plants is a non-negotiable step to produce fruit.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Before moving seedlings outdoors, “harden off” the plants to prepare them for the environment. This gradual process involves exposing young plants to increasing periods of sun, wind, and cooler temperatures over seven to ten days. Hardening off prevents shock and strengthens the plant, significantly improving its chances of establishment.
When transplanting, space the young plants two to three feet apart to allow room for their sprawling growth habit. This generous spacing improves air circulation, which helps discourage fungal diseases. Tomatillos can sprout roots directly from their stems, so transplants should be buried deeply.
Dig a hole deep enough to bury about two-thirds of the plant’s stem, leaving only the top few sets of leaves above the soil line. Burying the stem encourages the formation of a more extensive root system, resulting in a stronger mature plant. After placing the root ball, firm the soil around the base of the stem to eliminate air pockets.
For direct sowing, plant seeds about one-quarter inch deep in the prepared garden bed. Once seedlings develop their first true leaves, thin them to the recommended two to three-foot spacing, selecting only the most vigorous plants to remain.
Initial Care and Support
Immediately following transplanting, thoroughly water the plants to settle the soil and minimize shock. Consistent moisture is necessary while the plants establish themselves, requiring one to one and a half inches of water per week, delivered directly to the base. Mulching around the plants with straw or grass clippings helps conserve soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
Because tomatillos have an indeterminate, sprawling growth habit, installing a sturdy support structure is necessary at the time of planting. Placing tomato cages or stakes around the small transplants now prevents potential root damage that could occur if supports were driven into the ground later. Training the plants vertically keeps the foliage and fruit off the soil, which improves air circulation and prevents stems from rooting.
Tomatillos benefit from a moderate initial feeding, especially if the soil was not previously rich in organic matter. An application of a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer at planting time is appropriate, or amending the soil with aged compost provides a slow-release source of nutrients. Too much nitrogen, however, may lead to excessive leafy growth and reduced fruit production, so moderation is advised. Keep an eye out for common early pests like flea beetles.