Tomatillos, often called the Mexican husk tomato, are prized for their tart, citrusy flavor, which forms the base of authentic salsa verde. Finding the right plant is the first step toward a successful harvest of these relatives of the cape gooseberry. An informed purchase requires understanding the differences between varieties, knowing the plant’s specific needs, and identifying the best source for acquisition.
Selecting the Right Tomatillo Variety
Tomatillos are generally categorized by fruit color, which affects flavor and size. Green varieties, such as ‘Toma Verde’ or ‘Gigante,’ are the most common. They are favored for their firm texture and pronounced tartness, which is desirable for savory dishes. These types are usually harvested when the fruit fills the papery husk but remains green.
Purple varieties, like ‘Purple Coban’ or ‘Purple De Milpa,’ tend to be smaller and offer a slightly sweeter, less acidic flavor profile. The purple coloration develops as the fruit fully matures, making them suitable for eating raw or for sweeter salsas. Most commercial varieties mature quickly, ready for harvest approximately 60 to 75 days after transplanting. Selection should be based on intended culinary use and available space, as some varieties have a sprawling growth habit.
Essential Pre-Purchase Considerations
Before purchasing, gardeners must understand the need for cross-pollination. Tomatillos are self-incompatible, meaning an individual plant cannot pollinate itself or set fruit with its own pollen. This biological mechanism requires pollen transfer between two genetically distinct plants to ensure fruit development.
This necessity is known as the “Two-Plant Rule,” requiring the purchase of a minimum of two separate plants for a successful harvest. A single plant will likely flower profusely but fail to produce fruit. Examine the health of young plants by checking the leaves for signs of common pests like aphids or flea beetles. Healthy starts should have a sturdy stem and vibrant green leaves without yellowing or spots. Avoid plants that appear visibly root-bound, where the roots are tightly circling the base of the pot, as this can stunt growth after transplanting.
Locating and Acquiring Tomatillo Plants
The decision of where to purchase your tomatillo starts depends on your need for specific varieties, your budget, and your preference for inspecting the plant before buying.
Local Nurseries and Garden Centers
Local nurseries and garden centers are excellent sources because they often stock varieties proven to thrive in the regional climate. The plants purchased here are typically larger and more mature than those shipped, offering the benefit of immediate visual inspection to confirm health. Staff at dedicated local nurseries can also provide specialized advice tailored to your specific growing area.
Big Box Stores
Big box stores also offer tomatillo plants, usually available at a lower price point and providing convenience. However, the quality of care can be inconsistent. It is important to carefully check the plants for signs of stress or pests before purchase. While the selection is often limited to only the most common varieties, these stores are readily accessible during the peak spring planting season.
Online Retailers
Online retailers and mail-order nurseries provide the widest selection, which is useful if you are seeking a rare or heirloom variety. These plants are shipped directly to your door, offering convenience, but they are often smaller starts that may experience stress during transit. When ordering online, be prepared to unpack the plants immediately upon arrival and ensure the vendor has a clear guarantee regarding plant health.
Starting from Seed
Another viable option is to purchase seeds and grow your own starts, which offers the greatest variety control and is the most cost-effective method. Tomatillo seeds should be started indoors approximately six to eight weeks before the last expected frost date. While this requires more initial effort, it ensures you can acquire the exact varieties you want. Starting the required two plants from the same seed packet is possible, as the individual seedlings will be genetically distinct enough for cross-pollination.