Chayote squash (Sechium edule) is a vigorous, warm-weather vining plant belonging to the gourd family. This unique vegetable, which looks like a pale green, wrinkled pear, is typically grown as an annual due to its sensitivity to cold temperatures. Unlike most squash, chayote contains a single seed that germinates while still inside the fruit, meaning the entire fruit must be planted to grow a new vine. Cultivating this tropical plant requires encouraging the fruit to sprout before planting.
Sprouting the Chayote Fruit
Planting chayote is distinct because the fruit itself is the propagation unit; the seed is viviparous and germinates while still encased within the flesh. To start the process, select an unblemished, mature chayote that feels firm and shows no signs of rot.
The fruit should be encouraged to sprout indoors several weeks before the last expected frost date. Place the whole fruit on a sunny windowsill or warm counter, or partially bury it in lightly moist potting mix. Warm temperatures, ideally between 70°F and 85°F, will hasten germination.
Within a few weeks, a slender green sprout will emerge from the wider, grooved end of the fruit. The fruit is ready for planting outdoors when the sprout reaches four to six inches in length and has developed its first true leaves. Planting the fruit too early increases the risk of it rotting in the soil.
Optimal Site Selection and Timing
Successful chayote growth depends on satisfying its tropical requirements for warmth and sunlight. Select a location that receives full sun (at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily). The plant thrives in rich, well-draining soil, so amending the planting site with organic compost or aged manure is beneficial.
Proper timing is crucial because the plant is extremely sensitive to cold. Planting should only occur after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature is consistently warm, ideally above 65°F. Planting too early risks the cold soil causing the fruit to rot before the vine establishes a root system.
Step-by-Step Planting Instructions
Once the sprouted fruit is ready and the soil is warm, prepare the planting site by digging a large, wide hole, about one foot in diameter, to accommodate the entire fruit and allow for easy root expansion. The most important step is the correct orientation of the fruit in the soil. The sprouted chayote should be placed on its side or at a slight angle within the hole.
The narrow end of the fruit, where the sprout emerges, must be positioned pointing slightly upward and should be barely covered by the soil, or even left exposed at the surface. The bulk of the fruit should be buried approximately two to three inches deep, with the sprout angled out of the ground. This shallow depth is purposeful, as burying the fruit too deeply can lead to rot.
Immediate Post-Planting Care
After planting the sprouted chayote, immediate care focuses on establishment and support for the rapidly growing vine. The soil around the newly planted fruit should be watered deeply and consistently, but not to the point of becoming waterlogged, as this can cause the buried fruit to decay. Maintaining slightly moist soil is necessary until the vine is visibly established and growing vigorously.
The chayote is a fast-growing, heavy vine that can reach lengths of 20 to 50 feet in a single season. Therefore, a robust support structure must be installed at the time of planting to prevent damage to the young vine. A sturdy trellis, arbor, or strong fence is necessary to support the mature plant’s weight and keep the developing fruit off the ground.