The Umbrella Pattypan squash is an ideal choice for vegetable growers seeking a bountiful harvest. This variety boasts resistance to various diseases and pests, making it a leader among pumpkin and vegetable crops. However, it's important to follow proper agronomic practices to achieve the best results.
Introduction to the variety
The Umbrella squash is a compact variety suitable for both fresh consumption and canning. The average yield per square meter in garden beds reaches 3 kg, while commercial yields range from 4.5-5 kg in the same space.
Other characteristic features:
- One of the advantages of this variety is its cold resistance – it can tolerate low temperatures and light frosts.
- The variety is renowned for its resistance to diseases and insects, which allows it to be cultivated without the use of chemical plant protection products.
- The period until full ripening is only 35-50 days.
When and by whom was it selected?
The Zontik pattypan squash, also known as Zontik, was developed in 1988 at the Kuban Experimental Station, a branch of the Federal Research Center of the N. I. Vavilov All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources. In 1993, this variety received permission to cultivate in the Central Black Earth Region.
The specificity of the bushes and cucumbers, taste
This variety produces large fruits, weighing between 600 and 1400 grams. The fruits are snow-white, and the flesh is also white and firm. The pumpkins have a sweet taste. The bushes do not branch and have a bushy growth habit.
Growing and care
The time for sowing squash varies depending on the climatic conditions of the region and the cultivation method:
- In most cases, seeds for seedlings are sown in April and transplanted into open ground between May and June.
- If you decide to sow seeds directly into the soil, it is best to do this after May 12-18.
Growing features:
- Prefers sunny areas that are protected from gusts of wind.
- The recommended distance between plants is 60-65 by 60-70 cm.
- It is important that the soil is well fertilized and has a neutral acidity, as this will have a beneficial effect on the development of the crop.
- It is recommended to use film to protect against possible night frosts.
- Requires regular watering, but avoid over-watering the soil.
- × Avoid watering in the evening to prevent the development of fungal diseases.
- × Do not use cold water directly from a well or borehole, let it warm up to ambient temperature.
Reviews
The Umbrella Pattypan squash is a variety that delights with its early ripening and excellent flavor. It is resistant to cold and disease. The plant grows as a bush or semi-bush. The fruits are white or greenish, cup-shaped, with serrated edges, and the surface can be either smooth or slightly ribbed.