How to Grow Tomatillo

Start Tomatillo seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

Tomatillo typically matures in about 75 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Tomatillo should be started indoors 6 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

Tomatillo requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

Space Tomatillo plants 24 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

Tomatillo has regular (1-2 inches/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Tomatillo is rated easy. Let tomatillos stay on the plant until the husk turns tan and papery and the fruit dries inside. Squash dried fruit to release seeds, spread on a screen to dry for 1–2 weeks.

Properly dried and stored Tomatillo seeds remain viable for up to 4 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Yes — Tomatillo is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.