Courgettes.

Yep – Curcubita pepo – and yes they are fruits not vegetables because they have seeds.

Jamie Oliver’s vegepedia has some great recipes to try when they are ready in June/July!!!

READY, STEADY, GROW

1. Sow seeds in compost in April/May
2. Keep plantlets indoors until end May
3. Plant outdoors in a border OR in a carrier bag full of soil/compost if you are short of space
4. You should get 3 or 4 Curcubita Pepos a week 😳😳🌱❤️

For more advice on planting and growing go to the RHS

GROW UP (vertical gardening)

Grow courgettes vertically to save space and increase yield

1. Tie the stem to a wooden stake as it grows
2. Use garden twine, securing it about every 10cm
3. Cut off all lower leaves so it focusses growing on the courgettes
4. Harvest frequently!

See this video for more details

HEALTH FACTS

• Courgettes contain very few calories and have a high water content
• They provide useful amounts of immune system-boosting vitamin C and significant levels of potassium, which is key to controlling blood pressure
• The soluble fibre in the skin slows down digestion and so stabilises blood sugar and insulin levels
• Soluble fibre also helps prevent constipation and relieves irritable bowel symptoms.