Cape Gooseberry (80 Days)

Nutritional nuggets of gold! This unique fruit, whom is a relative of the tomatillo, has a brilliant orange color with flavours of mango and cranberry.

• • High in protein
  • High levels of vitamins C, A and B12
  • Shown in studies to have both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxident properties
  • Good source of carotenoids, which may help protect against cancer and heart disease

The round orange fruit s loosely enclosed in a papery husk resembling a Chinese lantern, which provides a natural wrapper for storing the fruit, as long as kept dry. Eat Cape Gooseberries as a refreshing fruit snack; toss in fruit salads or bake into mixed berry crisps or pies; wonderful in jams and sauces for savoury foods. Also dry the berries and add to trail mix or toss with a green salad. Use to decorate tarts and cakes or dip into melted chocolate for a unique exotic experience.

Companion plants: asparagus, basil, borage, carrot, onion, parsley, peas, sage

Planting Instructions
Start seed indoors 3 weeks before transplanting out to the garden. Cover seeds with 1/4 in. of soil. Firm soil over seed. Keep moist but not waterlogged. To germinate maintain a soil temperature of 24°C. Seed should germinate in 5 days. Once seeds have sprouted, 14-16 hours of light per day is essential. Once plants have reached 5 in. transplant to 3 in. peat pots. Place the root ball at the bottom of the pot, filling pot with soil will ensure better root development along the stem. Plants will develop better with a growing temperature of 17°C until transplanting out. Fertilize weekly with our Rose & Strawberry 10-52-17 and Liquid Seaweed for strong root development. Do not transplant out till night temperatures are warm. Harvest fruit once paper husks loosen.