How to Take Care of Tomatillos

Green tomatillos produce their fruit inside papery husks, which gives them the common name "husk tomato." Although they are closely related to tomatoes, only their outward appearance is similar. The tomatillo fruit has a solid interior and mild citrus-like flavor. Cooked tomatillos add flavor to salsas, stews and a variety of Mexican dishes, while raw tomatillos are most commonly used in salads. The plants grow best during the warm summer months and cannot survive freezing temperatures. They have similar planting requirements to tomatoes, and thrive in well-drained garden beds where they receive at least six hours of daily sun.

Stake or cage
Hoe
Mulch
Plant ties

Instructions

- 1
  Install a 5-foot stake behind each tomatillo plant during the first week after planting. Alternatively, place a tomato cage over the young plants to provide support as they grow.
- 2
  Water tomatillos deeply one or two times a week, depending on how quickly the soil dries. Supply between 1 and 1 ½ inches of water per plant, or enough to moisten the top 6 to 8 inches of garden soil.
- 3
  Weed between the plants and rows at least once a week, especially when the tomatillos are young and not large enough to compete well with weeds. Pull weeds between plants by hand to avoid disturbing the tomatillo roots. Hoe or till the top 1 to 2 inches of soil between the rows to kill any new weeds.
- 4
  Lay a 2-inch layer of straw mulch between the tomatillo plants and rows once the seedlings are 8 inches tall. Mulch suppresses weed growth, insulates the soil and retains moisture in the soil.
- 5
  Tie the main stem of the tomatillo to the stake with plant ties as it grows, if applicable. Space the ties every 8 inches along the stem. Caged plants don't require tying.
- 6
  Harvest tomatillos after the husk becomes brown, brittle and begins to split open. Pick the fruits while green and before they develop a yellow color. Use immediately or store refrigerated for up to one week.

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