Zucchini 'Golden Zucchini' organic
Organic 'Golden Zucchini' courgette (Cucurbita pepo) from the seed company Gaia, a bright heirloom variety with a sweet and crisp flavor
The 'Golden Zucchini' is a remarkable heirloom variety, known for its bright yellow fruit and bushy habit that makes it a perfect fit for any vegetable garden. The first bicolor cultivar to be commercially available, it is distinguished by its vibrant color and tender, crisp flesh with a delicately sweet flavor. Productive, reliable, and delicious, it is equally suited to fresh dishes as it is to stir-fries, roasts, or summer grilling. Developed by Philadelphia grower W. Atlee Burpee, this cultivar remains one of the most beloved classics.
Harvested young, the fruits have a shiny, thin skin that is easy to prepare. Their small size and pleasant texture make them a preferred choice for gardeners seeking a tasty and decorative, fast-growing variety.
Companion plants : Corn, climbing beans, peas, radishes, sunflowers, parsley, celery, buckwheat, nasturtiums, marigolds, oregano
Negative plants : Tomato, eggplant, potato, pepper
Spread/growth : Bushy, productive
Plant height : 45 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Heritage variety, open pollination, bright yellow fruit, first commercially available bicolor cultivar
Farming method
Sow directly outdoors in late May or early June, when the soil temperature reaches 25°C. You can also start seeds indoors 2 to 3 weeks before the last frost. To encourage optimal germination, soak the seeds in warm water for up to 24 hours and lightly scarify the surface before sowing.
Plant at a depth of 2.5 cm (1"). Space plants 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24") apart and rows 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36") apart. This variety requires full sun (level 3), rich, well-drained soil, and moderate watering (level 2). Germination occurs in 7 to 10 days at optimal temperatures of 27 to 35 °C. Maturity is reached in 35 to 55 days, depending on conditions.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the fruit when it measures 4 to 5 inches, or smaller for an even finer texture. Soft, shiny, bright yellow skin indicates a perfect harvest. Picking every two days boosts productivity and keeps the fruit uniform in size.
Courgettes can be stored for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator at 1–2°C and 90% humidity. Use them quickly to enjoy their maximum freshness.
Ideas for using it in the kitchen
• Delicious simply sautéed in a little olive oil
• Excellent grilled or roasted with fresh herbs and garlic
• Perfect for zucchini pancakes, breads or muffins
• Superb julienned or thinly sliced in salads
• Goes very well with pasta or rice dishes
• Its golden color brightens up stews and soups
The 'Golden Zucchini' is a true gem of the vegetable garden: colorful, flavorful, productive, and easy to grow. It will delight both gardeners and cooks looking for a variety that is both classic and vibrant.
