Organic 'Caserta' Zucchini

Organic Zucchini 'Caserta' ( Cucurbita pepo ) – offered by Gaia, a high-yielding heritage variety

The 'Caserta' zucchini is an early heirloom variety , belonging to the cocozelle type, renowned for its abundant and continuous production . Its bushy habit makes it ideal for small spaces, and each plant can produce up to 30 zucchini in one season.

Its slender fruit, 16 cm on average , has a light green skin streaked with white , while its white and creamy flesh offers a sweet and delicate flavor. For an optimal taste, it is advisable to harvest the young fruits , between 15 and 20 cm long , before they become too fibrous.

Did you know?

Zucchini cocozelles like Caserta are native to Italy , where they are traditionally used in ratatouilles, grilled or stuffed . They are also very digestible and low in calories , perfect for a light and summer diet.

Spread : Bushy habit, vigorous growth
Plant height : 50 to 80 cm
Quantity per pack : ± 20 seeds
Companion plants : Corn, climbing beans, peas, radishes, sunflower, parsley, celery, buckwheat, nasturtium, marigold, oregano
Enemy plants : Tomato, eggplant, potato, pepper

Cultivation method

Sowing can be done directly in open ground in late May or early June, when the soil temperature reaches 25°C . For an earlier harvest, it is possible to start the plants indoors 2 to 3 weeks before the last frosts , then transplant them when the soil is well warmed .

To optimize germination, soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours and scarify lightly before sowing. Space plants 16 to 18 inches apart , with 24 to 36 inches between rows , to ensure good air circulation and prevent disease.

This zucchini requires moderate and regular watering , avoiding wetting the foliage to limit the risk of powdery mildew. Mulching at the base of the plants helps maintain soil moisture and improve productivity.

Harvesting and conservation

Zucchini should be harvested young , at 10-12 cm long , when their skin is still smooth and shiny . It is recommended to pick every other day to stimulate continued production and prevent the fruits from becoming too large and fibrous.

Being a perishable vegetable, the fruits can be kept for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator , at a temperature of 1 to 2°C and 90% humidity . To extend their conservation, zucchini can be sliced ??and frozen , or transformed into ratatouille, soup or puree .

With its rapid growth , excellent productivity and delicate taste , the 'Caserta' zucchini is a must-have in the vegetable garden, ideal for lovers of fresh and tasty vegetables!