Tomatillo
(Physalis philadelphica) Tomatillo is also called “husk tomato,” for the paper-like calyx or husk that encloses each fruit. Tomatillos are used in fresh salsas, and cooked in any number of sauces, including Mexican-style chili verde. They are grown very similarly to tomatoes, except that they are seldom staked; they do tend to be a bit faster from seed than most tomatoes, and a little more tolerant of cold weather. Start tomatillos indoors 4-8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant out after last frost. Germinating solanums will require a heat mat or very warm sunny area, as the ideal germination temperature is 78-85F. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep. Seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Keep seeds reliably watered until they germinate. You must grow more than one tomatillo plant to ensure fruit set.
