Tomatillo
Harvest Season: Summer, late summer
Plant Habit: Upright
Characteristics: Easy care
Water: Medium, heavy
Fertilize: Every week
Exposure: Sun
General Information:
Tomatillos are a versatile and delicious addition to any garden. With their tangy flavor and vibrant green colour, they are a staple in many Mexican and Latin American dishes.
Tomatillos thrive in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds and incorporating compost or well-rotted manure. This will provide the plants with the nutrients they need to grow and produce abundant fruit.
When planting tomatillos in the garden, space them about 3 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation. They prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Tomatillos are self-incompatible, which means they require cross-pollination to set fruit. Bees and other pollinators are essential for this process. To attract pollinators to your garden, plant flowers such as marigolds, zinnias, and cosmos nearby.
As the tomatillo plants grow, you may need to provide support in the form of stakes or cages to prevent them from sprawling on the ground. This will also help keep the fruit off the soil, reducing the risk of rot.