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| Physalis | Common name; Ground Cherry |
A hardy invasive perennial that dependant upon variety will grow to a height of 600mm (2ft)
They flower in July and are followed by globular orange fruits, enclosed in an orange-red papery calyx.
These make useful dried flowers for winter decoration.
Week 16; Plant out seedlings sown the previous year in a sunny spot if ground conditions allow.
Lift and divide established plants and replant the separated pieces immediately.
Take root cuttings at the same time if required
Week 18; Sow seed in pots / trays of seed compost and germinate them at a temperature of 10°- 12°C (50°- 55°F)
When the seedlings are large enough to handle, either transplant them into a nursery bed, or 100mm (4”) pots, growing these in a coldframe until planting out time.
Week 27; Cut the fruiting stems when the calyces begin to show colour and hang them in bunches upside-down in a light, airy shed to dry.
When the stems and fruits are dry, remove the withered leaves.
Week 42; Cut off the invasive underground runners with a spade and dig them out. These can be potted up and treated as root cuttings if required.
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