Zucchini
Cucurbita pepo
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Overview: A zucchini, also known as green squash, is a long, green type of fruit originating from Central America. It is a long, green fruit that is similar to a cucumber, except it tends to hold water, making it much more soft. It is considered to be a fruit due to the fact that fruit develops from the flower of a plant.
History: Zucchini has it's origin in Mesoamerica and is one of the largest of fruits and vegetables. It was also introduced into the "Old World's" cusisine following Columbus' voyage in 1492. Zucchini was developed in Italy around the 1800s and reintroduced to the United States in the 1920s. Today, many other countries use zucchini in the majority of their recepies.
Uses:
ingredient used in sweet and savory meals
packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
high fiber content and low calorie count
Recipes:
Zucchini Bread (https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/6698/moms-zucchini-bread/)
Stuffed Zucchini Boats (https://www.dinneratthezoo.com/stuffed-zucchini-boats/)
Zoodles *zucchini noodles (https://downshiftology.com/recipes/how-to-make-and-cook-zucchini-noodles-the-most-popular-methods/)
General Information:
Common Name: Zucchini
Scientific Name: Cucurbita pepo
Planting Zone: 3-9
Plant Type: Bush-type
Pot Size: pot with drainage holes, 12" deep and at least 12" across (approximately 15 gallons)
Days to Germinate: 1-2 weeks
Planting Depth: 1/2" deep
Seed Spacing: 3-4" apart, in rows that are 2-3' apart
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Water Requirements: Always needs water to maintain moist soil
Plant Size: 2-3.5' (determinate)
Days to Harvest: 45-55 days
Harvesting Code: Green (easy difficulty)
Growing Code: White (easy difficulty)
Planting Instructions:
Prepare the desired planting area by working organic compost into well draining soil; make sure to plant directly in the sun
Soak the zucchini seeds for 24 hours prior to planting *this is optional, but it improves germinatiom
Plant seeds during late May to early July, perferably at at least 70 degrees Farenheit.
Plant 3 seeds in each hole, about 1 inch deep, allowing space in between for room to grow. Place seeds in rows, about 2-3' apart
Thin out the seedlings when each one contains one leaf. Each seed will have its own hole.
Continue to water the seeds regularly to ensure the soil remains moist.
Harvesting Instructions:
Begin harvestung when the zucchini is abour 6" long and make sure the zucchini is firm, if it is soft, that means it is rotting and needs thrown out
Use scissors to cut the stem 1-2" from the zucchini. Sometimes, the individual can use their hands and gently break it off.
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