Two Color Fiesta

BEST TO START INDOORS

In early spring, start indoors about 6 weeks before outdoor night temperatures are reliably in the 50-55°F (10-13°C) range. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in containers of seed starting mix. Keep moist but not soggy and very warm 75-80°F (24-27°C). Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant into 4 inch individual pots. Maintain at 70-75°F (21- 24°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 3 feet apart into rich soil in full sun once nights stay securely above 55°F (13°C).

GROWING NOTES

Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Provide strong stakes or wire cages at planting time, or tomatillos can spread over the ground if you have lots of space; they are vining plants similar to tomato vines. Mulch well to keep fruit clean and conserve moisture; don't overwater once fruits begin to ripen.

HARVEST AND USE

At first, tomatillo fruits look like little green balloons. As the fruit inside sizes up, they resemble cherry tomatoes surrounded by a papery husk. Pick when plump fruits fill out the husks and begin to break open, usually at 1 to 1 1/2 inches, but before fruits begin to turn yellow or soften.