Pineapple Ground Cherry (Heirloom 75 Days)

It really tastes like a pineapple! The large spreading plants are 3 feet across and covered with hundreds of fruit that are quite different from other tomatillos. They are only about 3/4 inch in diameter and soft so they are great for eating fresh. They fall from the plant when ripe. The Pineapple Ground Cherry is great for preserves and pies.    40 seeds   PLANTING Physalis pruinosa Germination: 10-25 days Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 75-85ºF. Cooler soil temperatures increase germination time. Seed Sowing Depth: ¼” deep Starting Indoors:  8-10 weeks before the last frost. Sow in flats/cells/pots. Provide 75-85ºF soil temperatures. Fertilize the seedlings every 7-10 days with a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer (diluted to ¼ of the suggested measurement). Transplant seedlings 24” apart after the last frost. Sowing Outdoors: Not recommended, especially in northern areas How much does a packet plant: 20-25 foot single row   Harvest: The fruits must be fully ripe to eat. Fruits are golden in color, covered in a papery husk and will fall to the ground when they are ripe. They have a shelf life of 3-4 weeks after harvest. Tips: The Pineapple Ground Cherry should be planted in fertile soil, and amended with compost if needed. It helps to use row cover early in the season, giving the plants extra warmth, especially in the north. Side dress when flowers begin to form. Place some type of cloth under the plants for an easier harvest.