Courgette Genovese organic seeds

The 'Genovese' courgette, offered here as AB-certified seeds, is an Italian variety originating from Genoa, in Liguria. It is a non-running variety, with a bushy habit, producing elongated fruits of light green marbled with grey, with smooth skin, enclosing white and firm flesh, with a delicate flavour. This variety is valued for its earliness and productivity. Versatile in the kitchen, it can be enjoyed raw in salads, cooked in ratatouille, grilled, stuffed, or gratinated. Sow from April to June, for a harvest from May to September.

Courgettes, or summer squashes, are harvested young, before maturity and consumed with their seeds. Originating from America, they belong to the cucurbit family and were introduced to Europe in the 16th century. Most varieties are running and cling to supports thanks to their tendrils. Male and female flowers are distinguished by the presence of an inferior ovary under the female flower, forming an incipient fruit. Male flowers, often picked after pollination, are delicious stuffed or prepared in fritters.

In cooking, courgettes offer numerous possibilities: sautéed, fried, gratinated, in soup, or stuffed. Courgettes are particularly present in Mediterranean dishes such as ratatouille, caponata, or couscous.

Harvest: courgettes are picked immature, with their stalk. For good conservation, fruits must be handled carefully to avoid cuts or impacts.

Storage: courgettes are quite fragile and better preserved once cut and frozen.

Cultivation tips: to protect fruits from soil moisture, if necessary, place a tile or slate under the courgettes. These plants appreciate slightly moist soils, making mulching useful during summer. To limit powdery mildew risks, avoid watering the foliage and flowers. Associate squashes with onions or chives, or with legumes like beans or peas, to promote good growth. However, it is advisable not to plant them near cucumbers, as this could harm both crops.