Winter Squash Seeds, Marina Di Chioggia Pumpkin

star-filled
4.4
26 Reviews
Sku:
#SQ133
Min. seed count:
20
$3.50

Description

(Cucurbita maxima). The Marina di Chioggia, a deep blue-green, turban-shaped squash, hails from Chioggia, Italy, south of Venice. Weighing around 10 lbs, it has rich, sweet yellow-orange flesh, perfect for baking or pies. Originating in South America, it became popular in Italy after being introduced in the late 1600s. This winter squash, storing up to six months, was a vital food source in the region, especially for the poor. Its sweet, meaty texture is ideal for dishes like ravioli and gnocchi, and it's still served on the canals of Venice, grilled with olive oil by the bargemen, and served as a whole wedge.

  • 95 days to maturity
  • 6-8 hours of full sun
  • Sprouts in 5-10 days
  • Seed Depth: 1/2-1”
  • Plant Spacing: 18-36"
  • Ideal Temperature: 70-95 F
  • Frost Hardy: No

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

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.

When to Grow

Plant Marina di Chioggia pumpkin seeds outdoors after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach at least 60-70 F. In cooler regions, you can start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost and transplant them once the weather is reliably warm. These pumpkins typically take about 95 days to mature, so plan your planting schedule accordingly.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds directly in small mounds or hills spaced about 4-6 feet apart to give the sprawling vines plenty of room. Plant the seeds 1/2-1 inch deep, with 2-3 seeds per mound. Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them out, leaving only the strongest plant per mound.

How to Grow

Water consistently, aiming for about 1-2 inches per week, especially during dry periods. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. This variety benefits from good air circulation, which helps prevent common pumpkin diseases like powdery mildew. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer will support healthy growth and fruit production. Since these pumpkins require pollination to set fruit, ensure plenty of pollinators like bees are present, or consider hand-pollination if needed.

How to Save
  • There are four different species of squash: Cucurbita maxima, C. pepo, C. moschata, and C. mixta. They will not cross pollinate with each other, so it is possible to grow one of each species for seed saving without worrying about cross pollination.
  • If you are planning to grow several varieties of more than one species, you can bag the blossoms and hand pollinate to avoid crossing.
  • Whether it is a summer or winter squash, you must let the fruit completely mature before extracting the seeds, and cure for at least two weeks.
  • Scoop the seeds, place them in a bucket, and add just enough water to cover. Let sit at room temperature to ferment for two days before rinsing off the pulp.
  • Lay seeds out to dry on newspaper or paper plates.
  • Stored in a cool, dry place, seeds will remain viable for up to four years.
FAQ

What are common pests and diseases, and how can I manage them?
Common issues include powdery mildew and downy mildew. To manage these, ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and use organic fungicides if necessary. Regularly inspect the plants for pests like squash bugs and aphids and control them with organic methods like neem oil.

How do I know when Marina di Chioggia pumpkins are ready to harvest?
These pumpkins are ready to harvest when their rinds develop characteristic blisters and harden significantly. The stem will also start to dry out and turn brown. It's important to harvest them before the first frost to prevent damage.

How long can Marina di Chioggia pumpkins be stored after harvesting?
Marina di Chioggia pumpkins can be stored for several months if kept in a cool, dry place. After harvesting, allow the pumpkins to cure in a warm, dry area for about 10-14 days to harden their skins, which will extend their storage life. Properly cured pumpkins can last up to six months in storage.

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Winter Squash Seeds, Marina Di Chioggia Pumpkin
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4.4
Customer reviews (26)

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