(Physalis philadelphica) The ubiquitous sight of the monocrop cornfield we have all grown accustomed to is truly a construct of modern industrial agriculture. The traditional cornfield, or milpa, consists of a loosely intentional and diverse mélange of plants growing in and amongst the maize. In this system, the wild greens (“quelites”) and vegetables harvested from the cornfield are prized, and often nutritionally as valuable as the corn itself. Tomatillos are one such plant and this beautiful purple landrace variety comes from that tradition. Try planting these at the sunny edge of your corn patch, the unruly and sprawling plants appreciate the corn stalks to lean on for a little support and structure. A delicious addition to tomato-based salsa or on its own as salsa verde (o “morada”?). 80 days. UO
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date.
Transplant out after danger offrost (55+F nighttime temps).
Note: Culture similar to tomatoes.
PLANTING DEPTH:
1/8-1/4"
SPACING:
18-24" spacing in rows 5' apart.
EMERGENCE:
10-14 days @ soil temp 75-85F
LIGHT:
Full sun
FERTILITY:
Medium-Heavy. Prefers well-drained, well-balanced fertile soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5. Tolerant to drought, cold, and lower fertility once established.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Row cover may be used for extra warmth and possible earlier fruit set.
Plant deeply to encourage healthy root growth.
Fruit is ripe when it pulls off the plant easily.
We don't trellis or stake these, but you certainly could for ease in picking. They sprawl!
