{"product_id":"squash-winter-marina-di-chioggia-pumpkin","title":"Winter Squash Seeds, Marina Di Chioggia Pumpkin","description":"\u003cp\u003e(\u003cem\u003eCucurbita maxima\u003c\/em\u003e). The heirloom sea pumpkin of Chioggia, a fishing village on the coast of Italy, south of Venice. The large turban-shaped fruit is deep blue-green, and it is one of the most beautiful and unique of all squash, perfect for market gardeners. The rich, sweet flesh is a deep yellow-orange and of good quality, delicious baked or in pies. The fruit weighs about 10 lbs each and is produced on vigorous vines. Originally from South America, this warty winter squash made its way to Spain and found its popularity in Italy. This dark orange and sweet-fleshed fruit was introduced to Venice in the late 1600s and quickly became a beloved addition to the culinary culture. The network of lagoons south of Venice has been inhabited since the 5th century. Originally the people there fished and hunted small game, harvested sea salt, grew fruit, and eventually, vegetables. The region became a major source of vegetables for the Venetians once the salt marshes were drained and cultivated. Winter squash became a key staple for the winter months, especially for the poor who could not easily afford or access meat. The rich, dense Marina di Chioggia, storing for up to six months, filled this winter food gap, and its reputation for incredible flavor fueled its spread across Italy and the world. This beauty of a squash is still served on the canals of Venice, where bargemen grill it with olive oil and serve it in big wedges. A sweet and savory delight, for sure! Its meaty and sweet texture has also made this pumpkin popular as a filling for ravioli and for making gnocchi.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrowing Tips:\u003c\/strong\u003e Marina di Chioggia pumpkins thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide the necessary nutrients for strong growth. Make sure that the plant receives full sun, about 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":59511139729694,"sku":"SQ133","price":3.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0999\/2280\/5022\/files\/squash_winter_marina_di_chioggia_pumpkin.jpg?v=1782396631","url":"https:\/\/www.rareseeds.com\/products\/squash-winter-marina-di-chioggia-pumpkin","provider":"RareSeeds","version":"1.0","type":"link"}