Growing Tomatillo

Physalis ixocarpa : Solanaceae / the nightshade family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
      S S              
        T T T          
      P P P            

(Best months for growing Tomatillo in Australia - tropical regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Easy to grow. Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 70°F and 81°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 28 inches apart
  • Harvest in 10-14 weeks. Husk splits when fruit is ripe..
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Will happily grow in a flower border

Your comments and tips

03 Dec 17, Mike (Australia - temperate climate)
Google "how to grow tomatillos" and read read read.
07 Nov 17, Patricia (Australia - temperate climate)
What a lovely idea! I’ve never grown them and about to plant some seeds-
07 Oct 17, Juanito Dela Cuestak (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Where can I buy tomatillo seedling or seeds in Melbourne. And, how to grow tomatillo plants here in Melbourne.
16 Nov 19, Jennifer S (Australia - temperate climate)
I found tomatillo seeds online, The Seed Collection. I am just about to plant out my seedlings, along with a few heirloom tomato varieties today. Its the first time I have tried to grow these in Canberra, so fingers crossed!
09 Feb 18, Michael Williams (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
New Gippsland Seeds in Silvan (near Lilydale) sell them Juanito. www.newgipps.com.au/product.asp?prodId=1964 I suggest you go there and look at what else they have. I was very impressed. I have no affiliation with them, incidentally, just loved their enthusiasm and range of stock.
08 Oct 17, Darren (Australia - temperate climate)
The Seed Collection sells seeds online, and they are based in Victoria.
30 Sep 17, Paul (Australia - temperate climate)
I live in Western Victoria, and would like to try some Tomatillo. Can you advise where to buy seed or seedlings in Hamilton or Mt Gambier (nearest main centres). I do grow Cape Gooseberries which grow extremely well here, despite frosts in winter months but have never tried ixocarpa.
02 Oct 17, Mike (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Try "Australian Seeds" website. 30 seeds $3.60 + postage. Or look for Cape Gooseberries - very similar. Look around the internet to find sellers and best price.
30 Sep 17, Lawry (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
I get my seeds fro fairdinkum seeds. They are a farth north qld family who sell all sorts of fascinating seeds by mail order. Fairdinkumseeds.com.au or on Facebook.
09 Sep 17, Mara (Australia - temperate climate)
Hi, I live in Adelaide. Appart from Bunnings do you know any other contact where I could get seeds or plant to start growing it myself? I'm mexican and tomatillo is like the 'heart' of mexican dishes so can't wait to grow it! :)
Showing 11 - 20 of 62 comments

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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