How to Plant Ground Cherry Tomatoes in Florida

Ground cherry tomatoes, also known as Cape gooseberries, are a tasty and nutritious addition to any garden. These small fruits are packed with vitamins and are easy to grow in the warm climate of Florida. Here are a few tips on how to plant ground cherry tomatoes in Florida.

Choose a Sunny Location

Ground cherry tomatoes require plenty of sunlight to grow and produce fruit. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If your garden does not have a sunny spot, consider planting your ground cherry tomatoes in containers that can be moved around to follow the sun.

Prepare the Soil

Ground cherry tomatoes prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, add compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and provide essential nutrients. Ground cherry tomatoes also prefer a slightly acidic pH, between 5.5 and 7.0. You can test your soil's pH with a soil test kit, available at most garden centers.

Plant the Seeds or Transplants

You can start ground cherry tomato seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. Plant the seeds in a well-draining seed starting mix, and keep them warm and moist until they germinate. Once the danger of frost has passed, you can transplant your seedlings outdoors.

If you prefer, you can also buy ground cherry tomato transplants from a nursery or garden center. Transplants are a great option if you don't have a lot of space for seed starting or if you want to get a head start on the growing season.

Maintain the Plants

Water your ground cherry tomato plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and prevent weeds from competing with the tomatoes for nutrients. Fertilize your ground cherry tomato plants regularly with an organic fertilizer, such as compost tea, fish emulsion, or bone meal.

Harvest the Fruit

Ground cherry tomatoes are ready to harvest when the husks turn brown and dry, and the fruits inside are a golden yellow color. Gently lift the fruits out of the husks, and discard any that are soft or discolored. Enjoy your fresh ground cherry tomatoes as a healthy snack, in salads, or in your favorite recipes.

Conclusion

Planting and growing ground cherry tomatoes in Florida is relatively easy, once you know the basics. Choose a sunny location, prepare the soil, plant the seeds or transplants, maintain the plants, and harvest the fruit when it's ripe. With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious and nutritious ground cherry tomatoes all summer long.