Chayote

Plant family

Curcurbits (Cucurbitaceae)

Also known as

Mirliton, Choko

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Moist

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

High

Plant distance

100 cm

Row spacing

100 cm

Seeding depth

7 cm

Instructions

Description

The chayote (Sechium edule) is classified in the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae). It has a very strong vine and besides the fruit, the young shoots and roots are also edible. The light to dark green, pear-shaped fruits with their firm flesh grow between 10-20 cm in size and weigh up to 1 kg. The skin may have furrows or spines or may be smooth. They can only be stored for a short time, as the pit inside the fruit quickly begins to germinate. The plant is actually perennial, but due to its sensitivity to frost, it is rarely overwintered in our country. It can also be grown in tubs and it is best to attach the tendrils to a scaffold. The taste is reminiscent of zucchini or kohlrabi.

Growing tips

Chayote likes it warm and in cool regions it is recommended to grow it in a greenhouse, although it can take up a lot of space. It is a heavy feeder. Plants that like partial shade can grow well under its tendrils. The crop rotation should be observed. To grow the chayote, simply place the ripe fruit halfway into the soil (the pot should hold at least 5 liters). Keep the soil in the 2-3 only slightly moist and place in a warm place (25-29°C). Roots and shoots should then have formed. Now water well and tie the plant up. After the last frosts, plant out and place in the fertilized soil at a 45° angle up to the base of the shoot. Continue to water and fertilize regularly. Shoots should be shortened or cut off from time to time, as otherwise the plant can gain the upper hand and at the same time ensure healthy growth. Several chayote plants next to each other increase the yield but are not necessary for fertilization as they are pollinated by insects. The fruits are harvested when they are still hard, as they can rot quickly. Harvest before the first frost at the latest. Treatment with horsetail tea prevents mildew.