Squash Carat

A compact and versatile squash, known as Mini-Muscat de Provence, perfect for those with limited space who still want a generous harvest.

About the variety. The smooth, square-shaped cream-skinned fruits weigh between 1–2 kg and have a tasty orange flesh with good post-harvest storage. The flowers are edible, adding extra value to the plant.

€1,88

Itinerário técnico

Como cultivar squash carat?

Um guia de cultivo passo a passo, da sementeira à colheita.

pH ideal 6.5 and 7.0Temperatura ideal 22 and 32°C

Sementeira

Sow in the final location or in trays, transplanting when seedlings reach about 10 cm.

Solo

Fertile, loamy and well-drained soils are recommended for this crop. Soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0

Clima

It is a crop that thrives in warm conditions, with the ideal temperature for growth and fruit set ranging between 22 and 32°C, and night temperatures that normally do not drop below 20°C, as temperatures below this value lead to poor pollen tube development. Soil temperature at sowing time should be at least 20°C.

Fertilização

This is a nitrogen-demanding crop, so well-composted organic matter should be incorporated into the soil before planting.

Rega

Irrigation is essential during flowering, pollination and fruit development, and water doses should be gradually reduced as the fruit reaches maturity. For this reason, drip irrigation is a good option for this crop, given the varying water requirements throughout the growth cycle and the fact that it does not wet the leaves (which can lead to the development of diseases).

Controlo de Infestantes

Mechanical control in the early stages of the crop cycle and mulching with organic materials or plastic are options that help prevent competition between weeds and the crop.

Controlo de Pragas

Mites and thrips are common pests of this crop. Mite control can be achieved through biological control with predatory mites and the application of azadirachtin and dusting sulphur (if temperature < 28°C). Thrips control is carried out by using border plants that favour anthocorid predators (marigolds and other composites) and through biological control with predatory mites and anthocorids.

Doenças

Fusarium wilt and downy mildew are diseases affecting this crop. To control fusarium wilt, appropriate crop rotations, biofumigation and soil solarization should be carried out. As for downy mildew control, appropriate crop rotations should be used along with improvements to soil structure and permeability (avoiding waterlogging), through the use of wide plant spacing and the application of copper-based fungicides.