Chayote
( chye - OH - tee )
At-A-Glance Information
Known under the scientific name Sechium edule, this perennial vine is most commonly grown as an annual and is native to central Mexico. Flowers on this vine are inconspicuous, but develop into greenish fruits that reach 3-8 inches long. They resemble squash in look and taste. Each vine can grow 20-30 feet in the first year and 40-50 feet in the second. These fruiting vines require full sun and regular water for best performance and fruiting, and grow best in zones 14-16, 19-24, H1 and H2 as a perennial. It can be grown in all other zones as an annual. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
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Caring for Chayote
This vine can be started from plants purchased in a grocery or produce store. Purchase in fall and allow the fruit to sit in a dark cupboard. Then, plant in rich soil next to a sturdy growing structure. Set the fruit in the ground on a slant with the narrow end slightly exposed. Ensure that the shoot is about 1-2 inches when it is planted; if it has grown longer, simply trim the shoot back. If it is shorter than one or two inches, put the fruit back in the cupboard to mature. Tops will die back in frosty conditions. Blooms will pop in fall once the day lengths begin to decrease, and fruit is ripe within a month.
How to Harvest and Cook Chayote
When eaten young Chayote fruits can be consumed either cooked or fresh off the vine, though when mature they are better baked or boiled.
How to Harvest and Cook Chayote
When eaten young Chayote fruits can be consumed either cooked or fresh off the vine, though when mature they are better baked or boiled.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 237, Chayote
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