Basics

Ease of Growing
Easy
Grown as
Annual
Days to Maturity
72-78 (Spring/Summer)
Growing Habit
-
Hardiness
Tender

Tomatillos are sub-tropical and need plenty of fun and a warm sheltered spot.

Crops
Spring Transplant
Growing Season
Short, Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Warm, Hot

Provide strong stakes or wire cages at planting time, or tomatillos can spread over the ground if you have lots of space; they are vining plants similar to tomato vines. Mulch well to keep fruit clean and conserve moisture; don't overwater once fruits begin to ripen.

Outdoor Growing Temp
65°F - 90°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
60°F
Start Indoors
Yes
Start Outdoors
No
Light
Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Warm, Hot)

Plants prefer full sun.

Water
Moderate

Tomatillos are quite drought tolerant, but for best fruit production they should be watered regularly.

Feeder
Light

Generally, Tomatillos are independent plants and don't need a lot of attention. Give them a feed of compost tea or liquid Kelp when the flowers first appear.

Suitability
Drought tolerant, High heat, Needs lots of space
Small Gardens?
Yes
Containers?
Yes

Tomatillos are well suited to container growing, and will do quite well if you make sure to give them plenty of sun and a steady supply of water. Plant them in pot at least 12” deep and 8 to 12” in diameter.

Attracts beneficial insects?
No
Color
Purple, green
Fruit Size
0.5 - 1.5"
Plant Height
36.0 - 48.0"
Plant Diameter
24.0 - 36.0"
Hardiness Zone
4-11
Disease Resistance
-
Taste Profile

The heirloom purple-skinned variety is sweet, tangy and great grilled or in purple salsa. The green-skinned Toma Verde variety brings a sweet tart flavor to salsas, rich-tasting stews and savory sauces. 

Rotation Group
Fruits: Solanaceae + Cucurbits