Ground cherries and tomatillos are two related plants that produce unique, flavourful fruit. With some knowledge, patience, proper care, and a little extra warmth, you can successfully grow them in Quebec 
Because they need a long growing season, start ground cherry and tomatillo seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the expected last frost date.
Sow them in a good-quality seed-starting mix at a depth of about 0.5 cm. Keep the soil moist and place the seedlings in a warm (20–24°C), bright location; otherwise, they may not germinate.
Once the risk of frost has passed and the seedlings have grown well, transplant them outdoors. Tomatillos and ground cherries prefer a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Tomatillos and ground cherries need plenty of room to grow. Plant them about 90 cm apart.
Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. These plants prefer well-drained soil and do not like overly wet conditions.
Use a balanced organic fertilizer when planting and during the growing season to encourage good fruit production.
Watch for pests and diseases. Aphids can cause problems but can be controlled using organic pest-management methods.
The fruit is ready to harvest when the calyx (outer husk) becomes dry and papery. Tomatillos should be firm and green.
Because they need a long growing season, start ground cherry and tomatillo seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the expected last frost date.
Sow them in a good-quality seed-starting mix at a depth of about 0.5 cm. Keep the soil moist and place the seedlings in a warm (20–24°C), bright location; otherwise, they may not germinate.
Once the risk of frost has passed and the seedlings have grown well, transplant them outdoors. Tomatillos and ground cherries prefer a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Tomatillos and ground cherries need plenty of room to grow. Plant them about 90 cm apart.
Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. These plants prefer well-drained soil and do not like overly wet conditions.
Use a balanced organic fertilizer when planting and during the growing season to encourage good fruit production.
Watch for pests and diseases. Aphids can cause problems but can be controlled using organic pest-management methods.
The fruit is ready to harvest when the calyx (outer husk) becomes dry and papery. Tomatillos should be firm and green.
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