GREEN RIBBED COURGETTE -STRIATO NAPOLI APPROX. (15) SEEDS.

SOIL PREPARATION

Prepare the soil for planting by digging over and adding plenty of organic material, such aswell-rotted manure or leaf mould this

will help to improve the soil's moisture-retaining ability and fertility. Many gardeners swear by preparing in the winter and filling it with the rotted contents of the compost bin. Once covered with soil in late spring, the seeds can then be sown on top of the trench.

SOWING

Sow the seed indoors or greenhouse from April-May ready to plant after the last frost

Sowing seeds indoors or in a greenhouse gives a faster and more reliable germination rate,

Sow a single seed, 4cm (1.5in) deep, in a 7.5cm(3in) pot filled with multi-purpose compost.

Water well, label and place on a sunny windowsill or in a greenhouse to germinate. Seedlings will be ready to plant out after about A few weeks. Before planting, put in a cold frame or a cool porch for a few days so that they can cope with the conditions outside.

Alternatively, seeds can be grown from seed sown directly in the soil between the second half of May and the middle of June. plant two seeds, 2.5cm (1in) deep,  Water well. After germination remove the smaller and less robust of the two young plants. As they grow, ensure the plants continue to twine around their canes.

WHEN THEY START TO GROW

Regular and plentiful watering is vital. plants should be watered particularly heavily, twice a week in dry weather, both when the flower buds appear and once they're open.

Mulch around plant to help keep moisture in the soil when the conditions are dry.

Harvest:August - September