If you're wondering what in the world is a litchi tomato, you're not alone! Litchi tomatoes are not at all common to North America, and are in fact neither litchi nor tomatoes. So what exactly are litchi tomatoes and how to grow litchi tomatoes? Keep reading to find out more! Also known as the thorny tomato plant, litchi tomatoes are about 8 feet tall, prickly, thorny bushes that make small little white flowers with green pods that protect its fruit. The fruits are cherry red and are shaped like small tomatoes, while the insides are yellow to creamy gold with tiny flat seeds.
How to Grow Litchi Tomatoes
Litchi tomatoes are great to grow not only as a barrier or as a decorative plant, but also for their delicious little fruits. The fruits taste like a cross between a cherry and a tomato and go really well in salads, pies, sauces, and preserves. Keep reading to find out how to grow litchi tomatoes!
Planting Litchi Tomatoes:
- Start litchi tomato seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
- The soil temperature needs to be at least 60F.
- This plant does not like the cold, but rather prefers warm, sunny locations.
- You may not find seeds at your local nursery, so you'll need to look for them online.
- Sow seeds about 1/4 inch into soil and keep in a flat, warm area.
- Keep soil moist until germination occurs.
- Thin the seedlings and transplant them into small pots once they have at least two pairs of true leaves.
- When growing litchi tomatoes treat them as you would a tomato plant.
- Once they have their true leaves, transplant them into soil at least 3 feet apart in well drained soil, and in a sunny, well protected area.
Caring for Litchi Tomatoes:
- Grows best when pruned and stalked or caged.
- Plant won't produce for about 90 days after transplanted, so start early.
So now that you know how to grow litchi tomatoes, it's time to start planting!
Happy Planting!
