Do You Plant Tomatillos Deep Like Tomatoes?

Tomatillos are a beloved ingredient in Mexican cuisine, known for their zesty, tart flavor and versatility in dishes like salsa verde, guacamole, and pozole. If you're planning on growing tomatillos in your garden, you may be wondering how to plant them properly for the best yield. One question that often comes up is whether to plant tomatillos deep like tomatoes. Here's what you need to know.

The Basics of Tomatillo Planting

Tomatillos are members of the nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. Like these other vegetables, tomatillos should be planted in full sun in soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining. They prefer a slightly acidic soil pH of around 6.0 to 7.0.

When planting tomatillos, it's important to space them at least two to three feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation and prevent the spread of disease. They should be planted in early to mid-spring after the danger of frost has passed, and can be started from seed indoors about six to eight weeks before the last frost date in your region.

Planting Tomatillos Deep: Yes or No?

So, do you plant tomatillos deep like tomatoes? The short answer is no. Tomatoes are a unique case, in that they can form roots along their stems when they are buried deep in the soil. This is referred to as "deep planting," and it can help tomatoes develop stronger root systems and become more resistant to drought and disease.

However, tomatillos do not have this ability. In fact, planting tomatillos too deep can actually harm them. Tomatillo seeds should be planted about 1/4 inch deep in the soil and lightly covered with soil or compost. They should not be buried too deep or overwatered, as this can lead to rot and fungal issues.

Caring for Tomatillos

Once your tomatillos are planted, they will require regular watering and fertilization throughout the growing season. They may also need support from stakes or cages, as they can grow up to four feet tall and become quite bushy. You should also monitor your plants for signs of pests and disease, such as aphids, whiteflies, or fungal infections. Early detection and treatment can help prevent these issues from spreading and causing damage to your crop.

Harvesting tomatillos is easy once they are ripe. They will generally be ready to pick about 75 to 100 days after planting, or when the husks have turned brown and papery and the fruit is firm to the touch. Simply twist or clip the husks off of the plant, and you're ready to start cooking!

The Bottom Line

While tomatillos are related to tomatoes, they do not require the same "deep planting" technique that tomatoes do. When planting tomatillos, be sure to plant them at the proper depth and provide them with adequate care and attention throughout the growing season. With the right conditions and care, your tomatillo plants will produce a bountiful harvest of delicious, tangy fruit that will liven up any dish.