Learning Download: How to Grow Husk Cherries

Husk cherries, also known as ground cherries, are similar in shape and size to a cherry tomato, but the fruit is covered by a thin, papery husk.

Before Planting: Husk cherries can be grown in a garden, a raised bed or a container. Start the seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date. Seeds may be slow to sprout, but once their growth begins it remains steady throughout the season.

Planting: Sow 1-2 seeds per cell 6-8 weeks at 1/4″ deep. Seeds are slow to germinate and require 10-18 days to germinate. Keep soil moist and at 70 degrees Fahrenheit until emergence. Transplant outside after last frost in your area. Space 18-24″ apart.

Watering: Husk Cherries grow best when watered 2 inches per week.

Fertilizer: Husk cherries are a low maintenance vegetable, but gardeners can add an all-purpose fertilizer when the plant is first established and also when the plant begins to grow blooms.

Days to Maturity: Similar to tomatillos, husk cherries are ready to harvest when their husk changes colors from green to papery white and open. The cherries are very easy to pick at this stage. (See variety for days to maturity)

Harvesting: If a heavy fall frost will hit, harvest the cherries even if their husks have not ripened. The cherries can after ripen indoors, like tomatoes. When harvested, the cherries can be eaten fresh or added to recipes like salsas.

Tips: Husk cherries prefer full sun, but can produce with a small amount of shade.