Cape Gooseberry (or Physalis), 'Giant'

Germination

Sow indoors. Sow onto moist well draining seed compost. Only just cover the seed with soil. Seeds trays may be placed in a cold frame if desired. Germination should be rapid. When large enough transplant seedlings into 8cm pots of rich soil. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed into a seed bed. Move to final growing position in the autumn with 60cm spacing. If weather gets cold offer cloche or other frost free protection.

Growing

Prefers a poor sandy soil in a sunny frost free location which is sheltered from strong winds. Fertiliser not required as this encourages leaf growth at the expense of fruit. Requires consistent watering for a good fruit crop but the soil must be free draining, the plant does not like to sit in water. Reduce watering as fruits mature. Stake or support as required.

Cultivation

Harvest fruit when it falls to the ground. The fruit is not ripe when green , it must be golden yellow with a papery husk covering. Unripe fruit can be poisonous to some people.