Getting Started

Start Seeds Inside:
Starting tomatillo seeds indoors allows for controlled conditions, ensuring strong seedlings ready for transplanting outdoors.

Direct Seed:
Direct seeding tomatillos is not recommended because they require a long growing season and benefit from indoor germination and early growth.

Transplant Starter Plants:
Transplanting tomatillo starter plants during the warmer months helps them establish quickly in the garden, leading to a productive harvest.

Pollination:
Plant at least two tomatillo plants to ensure proper pollination, as tomatillos are not self-pollinating.

Support:
Tomatillos can become quite sprawling, so providing stakes or cages helps support the plants and keeps fruits off the ground.

Soil, Sun, Water, and Spacing

Soil:
Tomatillos prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure.

Sun:
Full sun is essential for optimal growth and fruit production. Ensure tomatillos receive at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.

Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Spacing:
Plant tomatillo seedlings 18–24 inches apart in rows and space rows 2–3 feet apart for airflow and room to sprawl.

Harvesting and Additional Tips

Harvest:
Harvest tomatillos when the husk turns brown and splits open, and the fruit fills the husk. The fruits should be firm, fully colored, and slightly sticky—typically 75–100 days after planting.

Storage:
Store harvested tomatillos in their husks in a cool, dry place. They can last several weeks when stored properly.

Additional Tips:

• Mulch to stabilize soil moisture during flowering and fruiting.
• Give plants room or sturdy cages—tomatillos can get large and branchy.
• Consistent watering helps reduce plant stress and improves fruit set.

Fertilization, Care, and Problems

Fertilization (N–P–K Ratio):
Tomatillos benefit from a balanced fertilizer with slightly higher phosphorus to support fruiting, such as 5-10-5 or 5-10-10.

When to Add:
Before Planting: Apply fertilizer to the soil before planting seeds or transplants to promote strong initial growth and root development.
Mid-Growing Season: Reapply when plants begin flowering and setting fruit, then every 4–6 weeks as needed during the season.

Application Tips:

• Always follow the directions on the fertilizer package.
• Water thoroughly after feeding so nutrients move into the root zone.
• Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, which can reduce fruiting.

Pests and Diseases in Florida:

• Aphids: Sap-sucking pests that cause curling and yellowing and can spread disease.
• Tomato Hornworms: Large caterpillars that chew leaves, stems, and fruit.
• Whiteflies: Feed on leaf undersides, causing yellowing and weakening plants.
• Spider Mites: Cause stippling and leaf yellowing, especially in hot, dry spells.
• Powdery Mildew: White powdery coating on leaves that reduces vigor.
• Bacterial Wilt: Sudden wilting and plant collapse; rotate crops and manage pests that spread it.

Blog post on Natural Fertilizers

Natural Pest Control

Companion Plants and Plants to Avoid

Companion Plants:

Plants to Avoid Nearby: