Courgette - Cucurbita pepo

Courgette or as sometimes referred to as zucchini. Sow in pots indoors in April, planting 2 seeds per 75cm (3in) pot, push seeds into the compost sideways to reduce the chance of them rotting. They need gentle heat to germinate, so put them on a warm windowsill. Remove the weaker seedling after they have produced their first pair of true leaves. In early May, transplant outside where they are to grow, spacing the plants 24-36cm (2-3ft) apart so they have a chance to spread out. The end of May is the ideal time to direct sow seed outside. Keep plants well watered, try not to get developing courgettes wet as this can increase the chance of them rotting on the plant.

They like warm, moist, very rich soil in a sunny position.

Start harvesting courgettes from mid-June, when they are small, to encourage further production. If you miss collecting any they will grow into marrows, which can still be harvested and eaten.

Culinary use:

Courgettes have a high water content so they don't freeze very well. If you have a glut of them, make ribbons with a peeler or spiralising them into salads, stir fries, homemade burgers, lasagne or grate them and add to a cake mixture.

Cultivars and varieties: