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Close-up of a vibrant bowl of fresh pico de gallo, showcasing diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños.

How to grow Pico de Gallo from 5 ingredients

Learn how to grow the essential ingredients for fresh pico de gallo right in your garden. This guide covers planting and care for tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro, onions, and limes to ensure a continuous supply.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 25
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pico de Gallo Ingredients
  • 1 packet Tomato seeds or seedlings determinate varieties like Roma or Celebrity
  • 1 packet Jalapeño seeds or seedlings any common variety
  • 1 packet Cilantro seeds slow-bolt varieties are best
  • 1 packet Onion sets or seeds yellow, white, or red varieties suitable for your climate
  • 1 plant Lime tree seedling if in suitable climate or container growing

Equipment

  • Garden tools
  • Pots or containers (optional)
  • Stakes or cages (for tomatoes and jalapeños)

Method
 

Planting and Care
  1. Select a sunny spot in your garden or large containers with well-draining soil.
  2. For tomatoes and jalapeños, plant seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or purchase seedlings; transplant them when outdoor temperatures are consistently warm.
  3. Directly sow cilantro and onion seeds, or plant onion sets, following package directions for spacing and depth.
  4. Plant a lime tree if your climate permits, or grow one in a large pot that can be moved indoors during colder months.
  5. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and fertilize according to the specific needs of each plant.
  6. Provide stakes or cages for tomatoes and jalapeños as they grow to support their weight and prevent breakage.
Harvesting
  1. Harvest tomatoes when they are fully colored and firm.
  2. Pick jalapeños when they reach their desired size and color.
  3. Snip cilantro leaves as needed, harvesting the outer leaves to encourage continuous growth.
  4. Harvest onions when the tops begin to yellow and fall over.
  5. Pick limes when they are ripe and fragrant.

Notes

Growing your own ingredients ensures the freshest pico de gallo. Adjust planting times based on your local climate and last frost date.