Chayote — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Sechium edule |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 14–28 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 18.3–29.4 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 80–120 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 121.9–304.8 |
| Mature height (cm) | 91.4–243.8 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 304.8–609.6 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 7–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Tuber |
Growing directions
Plant the whole fruit (it is the seed) on its side with the broad end slightly angled down, barely covered with moist soil; sprouting begins from the narrow end. Provide a very strong trellis as a single mature vine can reach 30 feet and produce dozens to hundreds of fruits per season. Harvest fruits when they are 3–6 inches long and the skin is still smooth and light green; older fruits become pithy and hard. In Zones 9–11, chayote is perennial and will produce an edible tuberous root as well as fruits; in cooler zones, grow as an annual by starting fresh each spring.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0