The delicious and vitamin-rich Andean berry (Physalis peruviana) actually comes from the South American Andes. The plant, which loves sun and warmth, is mainly cultivated in the subtropical regions of the world, but it also finds the right conditions in tropical mountainous regions. But even with us, the fast-growing plant can be kept outdoors in the garden or in a bucket on the balcony.

Physalis grows well from seed

Physalis brings a rich harvest

The physalis - also known as Andean berry or Cape gooseberry - can be grown anywhere where the cultivation of tomatoes is possible. In fact, both plant species have similar needs because they are closely related. The fruits ripen about three to four months after sowing, and one plant alone can produce over 300 berries. Physalis is a species-rich genus (and the Andean berry described here is just one species among many), whose fruits are usually cultivated as fruit or vegetables. An exception is the Chinese lantern flower, which is also native to us but poisonous.

Cultivation of the Physalis

In Germany, the actually perennial plant is usually kept as an annual because it is not hardy. In addition, the fruit ripens over a period of many months, which is why the young plants should be cultivated as early as February if possible, but by March at the latest. Otherwise the fruit would no longer be able to ripen. Proceed as follows when cultivating the seedlings:

  • Fill small seed pots with commercial potting soil.
  • Sow the fine seeds in there and cover them only thinly with soil.
  • Always keep the substrate slightly moist with the help of a spray bottle.
  • Place the potty - possibly in a greenhouse or with a plastic bag over it - in a bright and warm place

However, the warmer the seedling is, the lighter it should be. The planted seeds will germinate within a few weeks and should be separated as soon as the plantlet has developed two to three leaflets (in addition to the two cotyledons).

Implement and care for the Physalis

From the middle to the end of May, the physalis can now go outside. You can either plant the plant in the garden or plant it in a container that is at least 10 liters in size. In terms of care, the Physalis is quite uncomplicated, it just doesn't tolerate too much fertilizer. For this reason, you should avoid frequent fertilizing. The fruits finally ripen from August to September. In September, at the latest at the beginning of October, however, the Physalis should - if you want to grow it for several years - go into the frost-free winter quarters. Berries that are still unripe by then can remain on the bush, they will continue to ripen.

tips and tricks

No need to buy expensive seeds, instead just buy some ripe fruit from your local supermarket. You can easily use the seeds obtained from this to grow your own physalis. The plant can be between eight and ten years old.

Category:

Vegetable garden