Organic ‘Genovese’ squash

Organic ‘Genovese’ squash (Cucurbita pepo) from the seed company Gaia, a tender, creamy and remarkably productive Italian squash

The ‘Genovese’ squash is a heritage variety of Italian origin, highly prized for its light green fruit with creamy , sweet, and slightly nutty flesh. It is best harvested young , when it measures 15 to 20 cm (68) , at which point its texture is most tender and its flavor most delicate. Perfect for grilling , stir-fries , or making delicious zoodles , this squash offers great culinary versatility. The bushy, compact plants are very productive and exhibit good resistance to common pests , ensuring a reliable harvest throughout the season.

Companion plants : Corn, Climbing beans, Peas, Radishes, Sunflowers, Parsley, Celery, Buckwheat, Nasturtiums, Marigolds, Oregano
Nefarious plants : Tomato, Eggplant, Potato, Pepper

Spread/Habit : Compact and productive clump
Plant height : 45 to 60 cm (1824)
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Creamy flesh, sweet/nutty flavor, ideal for early harvest, very productive compact plants, good resistance to pests

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Tender, creamy, slightly sweet and nutty
Cold tolerance : Not tolerant

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Farming method

Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for a maximum of 24 hours , then scarify to promote germination.
Start the seeds indoors 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors in late Mayearly June , when the soil reaches 25C .
Sow at a depth of 2.5 cm (1) .

Spacing: 3845 cm between plants, 6090 cm between rows.
Install in full sun (level 3) with moderate watering (level 2).
Germination in 7 to 10 days between 25 and 32 C (optimum 2735 C).
Maturity: 5055 days , a very early variety.

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest young, at 68 , for perfect flavor and texture.
For fully ripe fruit:
tough skin that resists nailing
uniform color
stain on the ground turning cream, gold or orange
Leave 2 of stem to limit rot.
Ripen in a dry, warm place before storing.
Store at 1012 C with 5575% humidity .

Usage ideas

In Mediterranean barbecues
As zoodles for a light alternative to pasta
Sauted with garlic, lemon and herbs
In creamy velvet soups
In Italian stuffings or gratins

The ‘Genovese’ squash is a reliable, tender and tasty variety, perfect for summer kitchens and vegetable gardens seeking productivity and culinary finesse.