Ground Cherries

Because ground cherries are a long-growing, warm-season crop they are typically started from seed indoors then transplanted outside. In some warmer climates ground cherries can be sown directly outside. Keep the seed starting mix consistently moist but not wet. A heat mat can be used to aid germination. Use grow lights to provide supplemental light as soon as the seeds germinate. Depending on the size of the container they were started in, ground cherry seedlings may need to be potted up into larger containers as they grow so they don't become root bound and stunted.

Transplant ground cherry seedlings outdoors after all risk of frost has passed and the weather is consistently warm. Ground cherries are sensitive to cold and transplanting them in cool weather can cause them to suffer and potentially die. Seedlings should be hardened off before transplanting. Ground cherries prefer loamy, fertile, well-draining soil. Add compost to the soil prior to planting. Transplant ground cherry seedlings at the same depth as they were grown. Apply mulch around the plants to manage weeds and to help retain moisture. Some gardeners like to use black plastic mulch around ground cherries to help warm the soil. Row cover can be used to protect young seedlings from pests and to help keep the plants warm. Ground cherries can be grown in containers. Choose a container that holds at least 5 gallons for each plant. Ground cherries have a tendency to sprawl along the ground; use stakes or tomato cages (even the flimsy wire ones) to help keep plants upright and supported. Install stakes or cages at the time of transplanting to avoid damaging the branches later on.

Ground cherries are ripe when the husk is dry. Ripe fruits generally fall from the plant and are harvested from the ground. Harvest regularly so the fruits do not rot, and remove all fruits from the ground (even the ones you don't intend to eat) to prevent the plant from self-seeding. In the case of golden berries, the fruit remains on the plant and is harvested by snipping it off. Be aware that ground cherries leave a sticky residue on your hands- this is normal.

Note that unripe fruits (as well as other plant parts) are toxic.

Ground cherries should be left in their husks until you are ready to use them. Ground cherries can be kept in the fridge for up to several weeks. Ground cherries can also be de-husked, washed, and frozen whole in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer frozen ground cherries to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag where they can be kept frozen for up to several months. Ground cherries can be processed into jams, jellies, and preserves for long-term storage. They can also be dehydrated.