The physalis is also known as the ground-cherry or husk-tomato. Sow
the seed in a hotbed or cold frame and transplant to the garden after
danger of frost is past, or the seeds may be sown in the row where the
plants are to remain and thinned to 12 or 18 inches. No particular care
is required except to keep them free from weeds. There are a large
number of varieties of the physalis, and the fruits vary in size and
color. The variety commonly used in gardens produces a bright-yellow
fruit, which is about the size of an ordinary cherry. Toward fall the
fruits will drop to the ground and will be protected for some time by
their husks. If gathered and placed in a cool place the fruits will
keep for a long time. The physalis will self-sow and may become a
weed, but it is easily controlled. A few of the volunteer plants may
be lifted in the spring and placed in rows instead of making a special
sowing of seed. Ten plants will produce all the husk-tomatoes desired
by the average family. The fruits are excellent for making preserves
and marmalade.--(F. B. 255; S. Dak. E. S. 68.)