Sowing window (UK)March to April
Minimum soil temperature15°C at seed depth
Sowing depth1 cm
Spacing60 cm apart
Days to germination10 days
Days to harvest88 days
Sowing methodStart under cover, transplant out
Frost hardyNo
Sunfull-sun
Wateringmoderate
Plant familySolanaceae

When should I sow Tomatillo in the UK?

In the UK, sow Tomatillo from March to April. It is normally started under cover and transplanted. Wait until the soil has reached 15°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - tomatillo will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Tomatillo need to germinate?

Tomatillo needs a minimum soil temperature of 15°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Tomatillo?

For Tomatillo, sow it 1cm deep and space plants 60cm apart.

How long does Tomatillo take to grow?

Tomatillo takes roughly 88 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 10 days.

Is Tomatillo frost hardy?

No. Tomatillo is not frost hardy. Do not put it outside until the risk of frost has passed in your area, and be ready to fleece it if a late frost is forecast.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.