Growing physalis (also known as Cape Gooseberries or Ground Cherries) from seed is by far the most popular way to get these tasty treats into your garden. To get started, you’ll need a few key supplies, and I’ve got some pro tips to make sure your seeds actually sprout!
The Gear You’ll Need
If you want to be successful with your sowing, having the right setup is a game-changer. First on the list? A mini indoor greenhouse. While you *could* just toss your physalis seeds into a standard pot, a mini greenhouse creates that perfect humid microclimate that seeds love.
Physalis plants are big fans of the heat. For the best germination rates, you’re looking for a sweet spot around 68°F (20°C). If your house stays a bit chilly, I highly recommend picking up a seedling heat mat. It sits right under your tray and lets you dial in the temperature perfectly.
Another “must-have” is a grow light. Physalis seeds are “light germinators,” meaning they need light to kickstart the growing process. Since we usually start these indoors in late winter or early spring when the days are still short and gloomy, a grow light ensures they get the “wake-up call” they need.
Sowing Your Physalis Seeds
You can start sowing your seeds as early as February. The most important thing here is your soil. You want a nutrient-poor seed-starting mix or some lean garden soil. While garden soil is free, it’s usually packed with weed seeds. If you go the DIY route, you’ll need to sterilize it first.
How to sterilize your soil:
- Fill an oven-safe dish with soil.
- Cover it with aluminum foil.
- Poke a few holes in the foil for steam to escape.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the soil for at least 40 minutes.
Once the soil has cooled down completely, you’re ready to plant! Remember: because these seeds need light to sprout, do not bury them under the soil. Just press them gently onto the surface so they make good contact. Pro tip: water your soil *before* you sow the seeds so you don’t accidentally wash them away with a heavy stream of water later.
Care During Germination
While you’re waiting for those little green sprouts to appear, keep the soil consistently moist. If you’re using a mini greenhouse, you won’t have to water very often because the lid traps the moisture inside.
That said, don’t forget to give them some fresh air! Pop the lid off for about five minutes every day to let things breathe. This simple step is the best way to prevent mold from crashing the party.
