Cucuzzi Squash- Lagenaria Longissima
- 65 days.
- Does best if trellised and allowed to climb, fruits grow up to 4', normally harvested when 6"-25" long.
- Italian vegetable used like Summer Squash if picked small, 6-10". Has a rich full flavor.
- The Italians say they can build a banquet around a Lagenaria. Bake with fresh tomatoes, basil and olive oil, top with cheese.
- Other names are Italian Edible gourd and New Guinea Bean. Large fruits can maintain excellent table quality.
Planting Directions: Plant outdoors in spring after soil is thoroughly and consistently warm with soil temperature 70° to 95°- 85° for optimum germination. Plant 4 to 6 seeds ½ to 1” deep in mounds about 3-6’ apart. To set out transplants start seed indoors 3-4 weeks before last frost in sterile seed starting mix that is consistently kept at 70°-95° with 85° optimum. Transplant into garden when soil temperature is between 65° and 75°. Plant in well prepared soil that has been enriched with rich compost or general purpose garden fertilizer. Water thoroughly and often during growing season through harvest time. Summer squash is best picked small. To maintain production pick squash regularly.
Cooking Hint: Use fresh in salads much as you would cucumber. Slice or dice for stir fry with onions, peppers mushrooms or any combination of fresh vegetables. Use steamed, fried and even pickled.