When is the best time to plant chayote?

Chayote is a very popular vegetable nowadays. It is rich in protein, fat, carbohydrates, etc. It has a crispy texture and delicious taste. So when is the best time to plant chayote? Let’s learn about planting time below.

When is the best time to plant chayote?

Chayote can be planted in spring and autumn. In most parts of China, the planting time of chayote is mainly concentrated in spring, generally starting in March and lasting to May. In some areas, such as the south and tropical regions, chayote can also be planted in autumn. The autumn planting time is generally between August and September, when the temperature is moderate, which is conducive to the growth of chayote.

How to grow chayote

1. Site selection and land preparation

Choose well-drained, fertile sandy loam or loam for planting. Before planting, the soil needs to be deeply plowed and sufficient base fertilizer applied to improve soil fertility.

2. Sowing and seedling raising

Soak the chayote seeds in warm water and sow them after the seeds absorb water and swell. After sowing, cover with a thin layer of soil and keep the soil moist. When the seedlings grow 2-3 true leaves, they can be transplanted.

3. Planting management

Plant the chayote seedlings in pre-dug holes, one per hole. After planting, water in time to keep the soil moist. During the growth process, fertilizer should be applied regularly to ensure the nutritional needs of the plant.

4. Fertilizer and water management

During the growth period, topdressing is done 2-3 times. The first time is before the vigorous growth period of chayote. Apply organic fertilizer and compound fertilizer in a circular trench 30-40 cm away from the plant. The second time should be around the end of the flood season, when organic fertilizer, compound fertilizer, wood ash, etc. should be applied in the ditch 60-70 cm from the plants. When the temperature drops to 20℃, before budding, you can apply fertilizer again according to the growth trend to facilitate the formation and growth of fruits in the later stage. As the plant enters its vigorous growth period, water requirements increase and watering should be carried out in a timely manner in addition to natural precipitation. To reduce water evaporation, you can cover the plants with chopped rice straw, wheat straw, etc. to achieve the purpose of moisture conservation.

5. Harvest

Chayote is usually edible 15 days after flowering and fertilization, and must be harvested before the first frost. When harvesting, handle them with care and wrap them one by one with paper. After harvest, chayote can be stored in a cool and ventilated place to extend its shelf life.

That’s it