Growing Tomatillo Plants
Grow tomatillos for tart fruit used in salsa and sauces. This guide covers seed starting, transplanting, harvest and storage.
History Of The Tomatillo
Tomatillos are familiar ingredients in Mexican cooking, including salsa verde and enchiladas. Their fruit develops inside a papery husk.
The plants are also popular in South American cuisine, where they are used in stews and sauces. Tomatillos are closely related to cape gooseberries, another popular culinary ingredient.
How to Grow and Harvest Tomatillos
Tomatillos are easy to grow and can be harvested from late summer through early fall.
Growing Tomatillo From Seed
Use your seed packet and local frost dates to plan sowing. University of Minnesota Extension recommends starting tomatillos indoors four to five weeks before transplanting and sowing 1/4 inch deep. Harden off seedlings and transplant after frost danger has passed and soil has warmed.
Transplanting Seedlings In Your Garden
Choose healthy seedlings and a sunny site with well-drained soil. Grow more than one plant for better fruit set. Allow up to three feet between plants, depending on the variety, and provide cages or other support.
Harvesting Tomatillo Fruits
Keep soil moisture even and base fertilizer use on soil-test results and label directions. Pick fruit when it fills the husk and is still firm. Do not wait for it to become soft.
Storing Fresh Tomatillos
Keep fruit in its husk in a paper bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Remove the husk and wash off the sticky coating before preparing the fruit.
Tomatillo Salsa Is Delicious And An Essential Part of Mexican Cuisine
Tomatillo salsa, also known as tomatillo sauce or tomatillo red chili salsa, is a delicious Mexican condiment made from fresh tomatillos, chili peppers, and onions. It is typically served as a dip or accompaniment to Mexican dishes such as enchiladas, tacos, and burritos.
The exact ingredients and proportions vary depending on the region and individual recipe, but all versions of tomatillo salsa are typically fresh, flavorful, and slightly spicy. While it is easy to find jarred versions of tomatillo salsa in grocery stores, nothing compares to the flavor of homemade salsa made with fresh ingredients.
If you have never tasted tomatillo salsa before, be sure to give it a try the next time you are in the mood for Mexican food!
Tomatillo Seeds For Sale
We have a wide variety of organic tomatillo seeds for sale. Enjoy!
Resources
For some helpful information on growing tomatoes, please see our Growing Guide in the Resource Center.
Growing reference: University of Minnesota Extension’s tomatillo guide.
