Horti Generation

Physalis peruviana L. greenhouse cultivation in Canada

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Introduction

The cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) also called uchuva is a member of the Solanaceae family like tomatoes. The plant native to South America (Peru, Colombia, Bolivia) produces an exotic fruit close to the size of a cherry, yellow orange, juicy and slightly acidic flavor.

The harvest of Physalis has to be by hand. It is a delicate, it is fragile fruit. Therefore, its price is high. This fruit is rich in antioxidants and its oil in fatty acids, carotenoids and vitamins.

During a field trip to Canada, I was able to discover the production of cape gooseberry in greenhouse. Indeed, the plant can resist to cooler temperatures (light frost close to 1°C or 30°F). It means, it can survive in a partially heated greenhouse in North America.

More detail about the growing conditions below:
https://www.growables.org/informationVeg/CapeGooseberryCRFG.htm

Photo report

The Physalis peruviana L. were grown as an inter-crop during their spring rotation. The plant suspended in the greenhouse allows farmers to move around while producing. In this case, it is a good example of complementarity with the production of exotic fruits with added value.

Photos credit: Personal photos from Corenthin (Félix) Chassouant

Sources:

Analysis of growth and yield of cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) grown hydroponically under greenhouse conditions. Revista Chapingo. Serie horticultura, vol. XXIV, no. 3, 2018. Universidad Autónoma Chapingo. https://www.redalyc.org/journal/609/60958477003/html/#B19

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Corenthin Chassouant

Agricultural engineer (MSc) working in the greenhouse and horticulture industry. My international experiences and my knowledge allow me to work with farmers and professionals across the world to advise them.

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