Ground Cherry

Growing

You can start your ground cherries indoors and transplant them once the soil has warmed and the danger of frost has passed. While the plant grows on a single upright stem, it is important to monitor for the Western cherry fruit fly. This pest punctures the fruit to lay eggs, leading to maggots that feed inside the berry. To manage this, you can use physical barriers or netting to protect your crop.

When your fruit is nestled in its papery husk, wait until the berry has ripened to a yellow color to ensure it is sweet and edible. Be aware that the leaves and the papery husk are toxic, so avoid consuming them. For the best harvest, pick the fruit as it matures and avoid letting any fruit over-ripen or soften on the plant. To prevent pests from overwintering in your garden, clear away any fallen or unpicked fruit from the ground after your harvest.

If you have leftover fruit, you can store it at room temperature, in a cool dark cellar, or in the fridge. For longer-term use, these berries can be dried, frozen, or even canned. Always store your harvest unwashed to help maintain its quality.