A ground cherry is a type of tomatillo. While they are similar in appearance and belong to the same family, they do have some differences in taste and usage. Ground cherries are smaller and sweeter compared to regular tomatillos, making them a popular choice for eating fresh or using in fruit salads and cobblers. On the other hand, tomatillos are typically used in savory dishes, particularly in Mexican cuisine, where they are the essential ingredient for salsa verde.
As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have grown both tomatillos and ground cherries in my own garden. I find that they are both relatively easy to grow and care for, making them great options for home gardeners.
When it comes to growing tomatillos, it’s important to note that they are not self-pollinating. This means that having at least two plants in close proximity is necessary for successful pollination and fruit production. Tomatillos have small, yellow flowers that need to be pollinated by bees or other pollinators. By having multiple plants, you increase the chances of attracting pollinators to your garden and ensuring a good harvest.
Ground cherries, on the other hand, do not necessarily require multiple plants for pollination. While having more than one plant can still be beneficial, ground cherries are often self-pollinating. This means that a single plant can produce fruit without the need for cross-pollination. However, having multiple plants can still increase the overall yield and provide a more abundant harvest.
In terms of cultivation, both tomatillos and ground cherries prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They can be started from seeds indoors and transplanted outside once the danger of frost has passed. I usually start my tomatillo and ground cherry seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in my area. This gives them a head start and allows them to establish a strong root system before being planted outside.
When planting tomatillos and ground cherries, I space the plants about 2-3 feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation and room for growth. They can grow quite tall, so providing support such as stakes or cages is also beneficial to prevent the plants from toppling over.
Both tomatillos and ground cherries require regular watering, particularly during dry periods. However, it’s important not to overwater them, as they can be susceptible to root rot. I usually water them deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions.
In terms of harvesting, tomatillos are typically ready to be picked when they have filled out their husks and turned a bright green or purple color, depending on the variety. The husks should be papery and easy to remove. Ground cherries, on the other hand, are ready to be harvested when the husks turn brown and start to dry out. The fruit inside should be golden yellow or orange and slightly soft to the touch.
Both tomatillos and ground cherries can be stored for a few weeks in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator. They can also be used fresh in a variety of recipes. Tomatillos are commonly used in salsas, sauces, and soups, while ground cherries can be eaten on their own or used in desserts and jams.
While a ground cherry is a type of tomatillo, they do have some differences in taste and usage. Tomatillos are typically used in savory dishes, particularly in salsa verde, while ground cherries are smaller and sweeter, making them a great addition to fruit salads and desserts. Both plants require similar growing conditions and benefit from having multiple plants for pollination, although tomatillos are more dependent on cross-pollination for fruit production. both tomatillos and ground cherries are versatile and delicious additions to any garden.
