Should Tomatillos be Planted Deep Like Tomatoes

Tomatillos are a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine, and many gardeners enjoy growing them in their vegetable gardens. However, there has been some confusion about how deep to plant tomatillos, with some people questioning whether they should be planted deep like tomatoes. In this article, we will explore this topic in detail and provide you with everything you need to know about planting tomatillos.

What are Tomatillos?

Tomatillos, also known as husk tomatoes, are a fruit that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine. They are small, round, and surrounded by a papery husk. The fruit inside is typically green and tart, with a flavor that is similar to green apples or lemons. Tomatillos are used to make a variety of dishes, including salsa verde, enchiladas, and chili.

The Basics of Planting Tomatillos

When it comes to planting tomatillos, the process is fairly straightforward. Like tomatoes, tomatillos are warm weather plants that thrive in full sun. They prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and they require regular watering. When planting tomatillos, it is important to choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.

Should Tomatillos be Planted Deep?

One of the most common questions about planting tomatillos is whether they should be planted deep like tomatoes. The answer to this question is yes: tomatillos should be planted deep, just like tomatoes. This is because tomatillos are part of the nightshade family, which includes tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. All of these plants have shallow roots, and planting them deep encourages the growth of strong, healthy roots that can support a large, fruit-bearing plant.

How to Plant Tomatillos

To plant tomatillos, you will need to follow these steps:

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.

Prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter.

Dig a hole that is at least twice as wide and twice as deep as the root ball of the plant.

Remove the plant from its container and loosen the roots.

Place the plant in the hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.

Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant.

Water the plant thoroughly.

Apply a layer of mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Caring for Tomatillos

Once your tomatillos are planted, it is important to care for them properly to ensure a healthy and abundant harvest. Here are some tips for caring for tomatillos:

Water regularly: Tomatillos require regular watering to thrive. Be sure to water deeply and consistently, especially during hot, dry weather.

Fertilize: Tomatillos benefit from regular fertilizer applications. Choose a balanced fertilizer and apply it every 6-8 weeks during the growing season.

Prune: Tomatillos benefit from pruning to promote air circulation and prevent disease. Remove any dead or diseased branches, and prune lightly to encourage branching.

Harvest: Tomatillos are typically ready to harvest 75-100 days after planting. When the fruit is green and firm, it is ready to be harvested. Simply remove the papery husk and enjoy!

Conclusion

In conclusion, tomatillos should be planted deep, just like tomatoes. This encourages the growth of strong, healthy roots that can support a large, fruit-bearing plant. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can successfully grow and harvest tomatillos in your own garden. Happy planting!