Squash : Winter : Potimarron

Vegetable

Description

Trailing. A famous French heirloom, the name of Squash Potimarron derives from potiron (pumpkin) and marron (chestnut). Squash Potimarron is one of the very best for baking and roasting, fruits reach 1.25-1.75 kilos (3-4lbs) in weight with an aromatic chestnut like taste. Good for storage.

Culinary note: Some parts of these flowers are edible. For more details about edible flowers click here.

Sowing Instructions

Sow April to May. Sow seeds 2cm (¾in) deep in 7.5cm (3in) pots of good seed compost at 21- 25C (70-77F). Place in a propagator or seal container in a polythene bag until after germination which takes 5-7 days.

Seeds can also be sown direct outdoors once the soil has warmed. Do not sow in cold soils. Sow 2 seeds every 90cm (36in) and thin out to the best seedling. Ideally grow under cloches until the plant is established.

Growing Instructions

Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for a few days before planting out after all frost risk has passed, 90cm (36in) apart each way.

Aftercare

Keep well watered throughout the season. Feed and mulch regularly.