Tomatillo Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

When it comes to growing your own vegetables, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as starting from a tiny seed and watching it grow into a thriving plant. If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, you may be interested in growing your own tomatillos. These small green fruits are a staple in many traditional Mexican dishes, and their tangy flavor adds a unique twist to salsa verde and other dishes. In this article, we will guide you through the process of storing, sowing, and germinating tomatillo plant seeds so that you can enjoy a bountiful harvest.

Storing Tomatillo Plant Seeds

Before we dive into the process of sowing and germinating tomatillo seeds, it’s important to understand how to properly store them. Storing seeds correctly will ensure their viability and increase your chances of successful germination.

1. Harvesting: Start by harvesting ripe tomatillos from your garden or purchasing them from a local farmer’s market. Look for fully mature fruits that have turned yellow or purple and have slightly cracked husks. Avoid using overripe or damaged fruits for seed collection.

2. Seed Extraction: To extract the seeds, cut the ripe tomatillos in half and scoop out the gelatinous pulp containing the seeds into a clean container. Add some water and let it sit for a few days, stirring occasionally. This fermentation process helps remove any remaining pulp from the seeds.

3. Cleaning: After fermentation, pour off the water and pulp mixture. Rinse the seeds thoroughly under running water while gently rubbing them between your fingers to remove any leftover residue. Once clean, spread the seeds out on a paper towel or screen to dry completely.

4. Drying and Storage: Allow the seeds to dry in a cool, well-ventilated area for about a week. Once completely dry, transfer the seeds to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a sealed plastic bag. Label the container with the seed variety and date of collection for future reference. Store the seeds in a cool, dark place like a basement or refrigerator to extend their shelf life.

Sowing Tomatillo Plant Seeds

Now that you have properly stored tomatillo seeds, it’s time to sow them and start growing your own plants. Follow these steps to ensure successful sowing:

1. Timing: Tomatillos are warm-season crops, so it’s essential to sow the seeds after the last frost in your area. Start indoors about 6-8 weeks before the expected transplanting date or directly sow them in the garden once the soil has warmed up.

2. Soil Preparation: Tomatillos prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Prepare the planting site by loosening the soil with a garden fork or tiller and removing any weeds or debris. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve soil structure and fertility.

3. Seed Planting: If starting indoors, use seedling trays or small pots filled with a high-quality seed starting mix. Plant one tomatillo seed per container, burying it about ¼ inch deep. Water the soil thoroughly after sowing.

4. Transplanting: If you choose to start your seeds indoors, transplant the seedlings once they have developed their second set of true leaves and all danger of frost has passed. Space them about 2-3 feet apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.

Germination Tips for Tomatillo Seeds

Germination is the process by which a seed sprouts and develops into a new plant. Here are some tips to help increase your chances of successful germination:

1. Temperature: Tomatillo seeds germinate best in warm soil temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). Using a seedling heat mat or placing the seed trays in a warm location can help provide the necessary warmth for germination.

2. Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination. Using a spray bottle or misting the soil surface can help prevent overwatering and ensure even moisture distribution.

3. Light: Tomatillo seeds do not require light to germinate. In fact, they prefer darkness during this stage. Covering the seed trays with plastic wrap or placing them in a dark area until germination occurs can be beneficial.

4. Germination Time: Under optimal conditions, tomatillo seeds usually take around 7-14 days to germinate. However, germination rates may vary depending on seed quality and environmental factors.

5. Thinning: If you have multiple seedlings growing in the same container, thin them out by removing the weaker ones to allow the remaining plants ample space to grow and develop.

By following these guidelines for storing, sowing, and germinating tomatillo plant seeds, you’ll be well on your way to growing your own delicious tomatillos. With a little patience and care, you can enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting fresh tomatillos from your garden and incorporating them into your favorite Mexican dishes. Happy gardening!