Sementeira
Sow in the final location or in trays, transplanting when seedlings reach about 10 cm.
The Porqueira de Bornes Squash is a local variety rooted in a regional agricultural tradition.
About the variety. Indeterminate-growth variety with a vigorous habit. Specific data on colour, shape and weight have not been documented for this selection, reflecting its genuinely local character.
Itinerário técnico
Um guia de cultivo passo a passo, da sementeira à colheita.
Sow in the final location or in trays, transplanting when seedlings reach about 10 cm.
Fertile, loamy-textured soils with good drainage are recommended for this crop. Soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0.
It is a crop that thrives in warm conditions, with the ideal temperature for growth and fruit set between 22 and 32°C, and night temperatures that do not normally drop below 20°C, as temperatures below this value lead to poor pollen tube growth. Soil temperature at sowing time should be at least 20°C.
This is a nitrogen-demanding crop, so well-composted organic matter should be incorporated into the soil before planting.
Irrigation is essential during flowering, pollination and fruit growth, and water doses should be gradually reduced as the fruit matures. For this reason, drip irrigation is a good option for this crop, as it accommodates the varying water requirements throughout the cycle and avoids wetting the leaves (which can lead to the development of diseases).
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.
Spider mites and thrips are pests of this crop. Mite control can be achieved through biological control with predatory mites and the application of azadirachtin and sulfur powder (if temperature < 28°C). Thrips control is carried out through the use of border plants favorable to anthocorid beneficial insects (marigolds and other composites) and through biological control with predatory mites and anthocorids.
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. For downy mildew control, appropriate crop rotations, improvements to soil structure and permeability (avoiding waterlogging), the use of wide plant spacing and the application of copper-based fungicides are recommended.