Courgettes

Question 1

Sowing

Courgettes

Answer 1

Sunny, open site.
Rich, well drained soil - dig in well rotted manure or compost before sowing or planting.
45cm apart and 2.5cm deep.
Sow mid spring to mid summer.
If sown early do so under glass, later seed can be sown in pots or in the ground but they may need protection with a cloche or cold frame.

Question 2

Crop care

Courgettes

Answer 2

Water regularly.
Use general fertiliser during growth.
Crops grown under glass may need pollinating by hand.

Question 3

Harvesting

Courgettes

Answer 3

Harvest when about 10cm long for maximum flavour.
Regular picking encourages fruiting.
Store by freezing.

Question 4

Diseases

Mosaic virus.

Answer 4

Affected leaves are mottled with yellow and dark green patches.
Surface becomes puckered and distorted.
Plants are severely stunted and may collapse.
Buy virus free seed or plants. Remove and destroy damaged plants. Wash hands and tools after handling infected plants, control sap-sucking insects and weeds as they may be virus carriers.

Question 5

Pests

Courgettes

Answer 5

Slugs