Horti Tops® Pumpkin Jack ‘O Lantern (Cucurb. Pepo)

Pumpkin Jack ‘O Lantern (Cucurb. Pepo) (Cucurbita pepo)

Summer’s Most Productive Plant

Zucchini and summer squash are legendarily productive. One or two plants can overwhelm a family with their abundance. This is why experienced gardeners joke about leaving zucchini on neighbors’ doorsteps – and locking their own cars in August so nobody can sneak more in!

The key is harvesting young, when fruits are 15-20cm long. At this size they are tender, flavorful, and the plant keeps producing. Let them grow into baseball bats and production slows.

Beyond Basic Sautéed Zucchini

Zucchini noodles (zoodles): Use a spiralizer or julienne peeler to create low-carb “pasta.” Sauté briefly or serve raw with your favorite sauce.

Grilled: Cut lengthwise into 1cm planks, brush with garlic oil, grill until charred. Finish with lemon zest and shaved Parmesan.

Stuffed: Halve lengthwise, scoop out seeds, fill with seasoned rice, meat, or cheese mixture. Bake until tender.

Fritters: Grate zucchini, squeeze out moisture, mix with egg, flour, herbs, and feta. Fry until golden. Serve with tzatziki.

Zucchini bread: The classic way to use up excess harvest. The grated zucchini keeps baked goods incredibly moist.

The Squash Blossom Secret

Do not overlook the flowers! Squash blossoms are a delicacy in Italian and Mexican cuisine. Harvest male flowers (those without a small squash behind them) in the morning when open. Stuff with ricotta and herbs, batter, and fry. Or add to quesadillas, pasta, or risotto.

Growing Success

Squash needs warm soil – wait until at least two weeks after last frost to plant. Give plants plenty of space (1 meter apart) for air circulation. Water at the base, not on leaves, to prevent powdery mildew. Harvest frequently to encourage continued production.

Growing Pumpkin Jack ‘O Lantern (Cucurb. Pepo)