Squash 'Trombetta D'Albenga'

Trombetta D'Albenga Squash (Cucurbita moschata), offered by the seed company Weston Seeds

?? A spectacular and tasty squash! ??

Trombetta D'Albenga squash is a unique Italian heirloom variety , known for its impressive fruits that can grow up to 36 inches (90 cm) long ! This climbing squash produces long, light green, cylindrical fruits , often curved in a spiral, that add a decorative touch to the vegetable garden.

?? When young, it is tender and sweet, reminiscent of zucchini . Harvested later, its flesh becomes firmer with a slight nutty flavor . Even its sprouts are edible , offering an original alternative to leafy vegetables.

Features

Days to maturity: 75 to 80 days
Fruit size: 60 to 90 cm (24-36 inches)
Plant height: 25 to 30 cm (10-12 inches)
Spacing: 45 to 60 cm (18-24 inches)
Exposure: Full sun
Sowing: Indoor/direct
Quantity per pack: nd

Cultivation method

Trombetta D'Albenga squashes love heat and thrive in rich, organic, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5 . Amend the soil with compost before planting to promote optimal growth.

Sow directly between late May and mid-June , at a depth of 2.5 cm (1 inch) . Form hills 2.4 m (8 feet) apart and plant 4 to 6 seeds per hill . Once the seeds have germinated, thin to 3 plants per hill .

If you prefer to start indoors , sow about 3 weeks before the last frost . Use biodegradable pots to avoid disturbing the roots when transplanting.

?? Tip : Train plants up a sturdy trellis to save space and encourage long, well-formed fruits.

How to cook Trombetta D'Albenga squash?

?? Young (less than 50 cm / 20 inches) : Its tender texture and delicate taste make it an ideal alternative to zucchini. Sautéed with garlic and olive oil , in a gratin or in soup, it reveals all its sweetness.
?? Mature (over 50 cm / 20 inches) : Its flesh becomes denser and slightly sweet, perfect for soups, purees and stews .
?? The sprouts and young leaves can be cooked like spinach ?? and added to stir-fries or soups.

Why cultivate Trombetta D'Albenga?

?? A squash with a spectacular shape, which attracts all eyes!
?? Versatile in the kitchen, as good young as mature
?? Its young leaves and shoots are edible and nutritious
?? Easy to grow and very productive in warm climates

Bring a touch of originality to your vegetable garden and enjoy an abundant harvest with this exceptional Italian squash!