Early summer is welcomed by the production of zucchini and ‘Cocozelle’ is one of my favorites. An Italian heirloom variety, it has a has a nutty flavor that makes it delicious in soups but, like other zucchini, can be eaten raw, fried, steamed, or grilled . Eat it alone, with other vegetables, or with pasta in a pesto sauce. Can be frozen or used to make zucchini bread. This particular cultivar has very attractive dark green fruits with light green stripes that create a pretty effect when the squash are sliced.
Days to Harvest: 45-55.
Planting Date: When soil temperature is at least 70 F at 2” depth.
Spacing: Plant 3-4 seeds 1” deep, in hills 5-6’ apart.
Germination: 3-7 days.
Size: Fruits can be eaten up to 12” long but are best when smaller.
Light: Full sun.
Water: Water heavily and frequently; mulch to conserve moisture.
Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drained. Prepare soil by digging in 2” of well rotted manure or compost.
Fertilizer: Apply high nitrogen fertilizer mid-way through the season. More may be necessary if soil has not been prepared with sufficient organic matter.
Care: Harvest often when plants are young to extend harvest.
Pests and Diseases: Squash vine borer; mildew.
Suitable for containers? Bush type available but are still too large for all but enormous containers.
Karen Meyers