Tomatillos are a versatile addition to any garden, but how many should you plant per person? Consider growing 1 to 2 tomatillos per person for a bountiful harvest.
To ensure you grow enough tomatillos for your needs, follow these guidelines:
– Aim for 1 to 2 tomatillos per person for a steady supply.
– Consider the culinary uses and desired yield when determining how many to plant.
– Tomatillos can be stored or used fresh in a variety of dishes, making them a valuable addition to your garden.
Garden Betty’s “Grow Enough Food” Chart
Crop | Number of Plants to Grow |
---|---|
Tomatillo | 1 to 2 per person |
Tomato (cherry) | 1 per person |
Tomato (slicing) | 2 to 4 per person |
Turnip | 5 to 10 per person |
Is the sticky stuff on tomatillos poisonous?
The sticky stuff on tomatillos is not poisonous. To store tomatillos, keep them in their husks for 2 to 3 weeks in a paper bag in the refrigerator or freeze them by peeling the husk, rinsing and drying the fruit, then placing them in a single layer on a baking tray until frozen.
Can you freeze tomatillos for later use?
Yes, tomatillos can be frozen for later use. To store tomatillos, you can keep them in their husks in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 weeks. If you want to freeze them, peel the husk, wash and dry the tomatillos, then lay them in a single layer on a baking tray (you can use parchment paper) until they are frozen.
Can tomatillos upset your stomach?
Tomatillos can upset your stomach. Additionally, tomatillos may cause allergic reactions in some individuals due to their nightshade family membership. Allergic symptoms can include skin and eye itchiness, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and a runny nose.
What size container for tomatillos?
For tomatillos, plant deeply with a spacing of 24-36 inches based on the training method. Use containers that are at least 5 gallons in size to accommodate the plants’ growth. Multiple tomatillo plants are necessary for effective pollination and fruit development.
Can you freeze chopped tomatillos?
Yes, you can freeze chopped tomatillos. To ensure a successful crop, tomatillos may require assistance in pollination due to their perfect flowers. It is recommended to have multiple plants or utilize bees for pollination. Hand-pollination can also help improve the yield of tomatillos. Proper spacing and ensuring a sufficient number of plants can enhance pollination success and plant productivity.
How to Grow Tomatillos In Containers - seed to harvest
Do tomatillos need cages?
Yes, tomatillos do not need cages. To use tomatillos, simply remove the husk by dunking them in hot water for 30-60 seconds to loosen it. Cut them like you would a tomato. Tomatillos can be frozen if you have extras.
1. Tomatillos can be stored by freezing.
2. Removing the husk can be facilitated by a hot water bath.
3. Cutting tomatillos is similar to cutting tomatoes.
Can eggplant and tomatillos be planted together?
Yes, eggplant and tomatillos can be planted together. To prepare tomatillos, remove the husk and cut them as you would a tomato. If the husk is difficult to remove, soak the tomatillos in a hot water bath for 30 to 60 seconds to loosen it. Any surplus tomatillos can be frozen for later use.
Do you need to hand pollinate tomatillos?
To ensure good fruit set, it is often recommended to hand pollinate tomatillos. Tomatillos, like tomatoes, develop roots along the stem and should be planted deeply. The bushy plants typically reach 2 to 3 feet in height and can become heavy with fruit, requiring staking or caging for support. Hand pollination can help increase production and overall yield of tomatillos.
What can you not plant near tomatillos?
Avoid planting dill and fennel near tomatillos. These herbs can negatively impact the growth and flavor of tomatillos due to a process known as allelopathy, where certain plants inhibit the growth of others. To promote healthy tomatillo growth, ensure a distance from dill and fennel, or plant them in separate areas of the garden.
What happens if you don’t wash tomatillos?
If you don’t wash tomatillos, dirt and potential pesticide residues may remain on their surface. To properly wash tomatillos: (1) Rinse them under running water, (2) Remove the husks, and (3) Rub them gently to ensure cleanliness. By washing tomatillos, you minimize the risk of consuming contaminants and enhance safety for consumption.
Are tomatillos toxic to dogs?
Tomatillos are not toxic to dogs, except for the husk and the waxy substance on the fruit, which are poisonous. The bitter taste comes from these parts. Before consumption, tomatillos should be thoroughly washed and scrubbed to ensure safety for both humans and pets. It’s vital to be cautious about which parts of the tomatillo your dog may come into contact with.
Do tomatillos grow well in pots?
Tomatillos thrive in pots when provided ample sunlight and regular watering. Plant tomatillos in a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and 8 to 12 inches in diameter to support healthy growth. Ensure the pot has proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, and consider using a well-draining potting mix to promote optimal development.
How long do tomatillos last after picking?
Tomatillos typically last 2 to 3 weeks after picking when stored in their husks in a paper bag in the refrigerator. To freeze tomatillos, remove the husk, rinse and dry the fruit, and place them in a single layer on a baking tray until frozen.
How do you get the sour taste out of tomatillos?
To get rid of the sour taste in tomatillos, pair them with sweet ingredients like mangoes, honey, or sugar. Additionally, lime juice or vinegar (red or white) can help balance out the sourness. It is recommended to experiment with different combinations to find the balance that suits your taste preferences.
What not to plant with tomatillos?
Avoid planting tomatillos with other plants that require extensive root space like tomatoes. Ensure to plant tomatillo seedlings deeply due to their significant root growth along the stem. These bushy plants reach a height of 2 to 3 feet and can become heavy with fruit. It is advised to support them with stakes or cages to prevent them from bending or breaking under the weight of the fruit.
Can you plant two different types of tomatillos together?
Yes, you can plant two different types of tomatillos together.
1. When planting different types of tomatillos together, ensure they are cross-pollination compatible to achieve successful fruit production.
2. Provide adequate spacing between plants, typically about 2 to 3 feet apart.
3. Tomatillos prefer full sun, well-draining soil, and consistent moisture for optimal growth and fruit development.
4. Regularly prune tomatillo plants to maintain airflow and reduce the risk of diseases.
5. Harvest tomatillos when they are firm and fully grown for the best flavor.
How do you get the stickiness off tomatillos?
To remove the stickiness off tomatillos, rinse them under running water and gently scrub their surface. Next, dry the tomatillos with a paper towel before using them in your recipe.
1. Store tomatillos in their husks for 2-3 weeks in a paper bag in the refrigerator.
2. To freeze tomatillos, peel the husk, rinse, and dry the fruit. Place them in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper until frozen.
In conclusion, determining how many tomatillos to plant per person depends on factors like individual consumption, growing conditions, and availability of space. As a rough guideline, planting 2-4 tomatillo plants per person should yield a bountiful harvest for fresh eating and preserving. However, it’s always wise to consider personal preferences and gardening goals when deciding on the appropriate number of tomatillo plants to cultivate for a rewarding and enjoyable gardening experience. Happy planting and may your tomatillo harvest be plentiful and delicious!