Growing chayote (Sechium edule), also known as vegetable pear or chayote squash, at home can indeed be a rewarding and relatively easy endeavor, and it can yield a generous harvest. Chayote plants produce multiple fruits and are a great addition to your garden. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grow chayote at home:
Materials you will need:
- Chayote fruit (available at most grocery stores or markets)
- Large containers or a sunny garden plot
- Well-draining soil
- Organic compost or well-rotted manure
- Trellis or support structure (optional but recommended)
- Fertilizer (balanced, slow-release, or organic)
Steps:
- Select chayote fruit: Choose healthy, unblemished chayote fruits from your local grocery store or market. Each fruit can produce multiple plants.
- Sprout the chayote: Place the chayote fruit in a warm, dry place for a week or two to encourage sprouting. This process is called “chitting.” Once the chayote has sprouted, you will see shoots emerging from the fruit.
- Prepare the planting site: Choose a location in your garden that receives full sun for most of the day. Chayote plants thrive in warm, sunny conditions.
- Prepare the soil: Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Mix in organic compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil’s fertility and moisture retention.
- Plant the chayote: Dig a hole in the soil and place the sprouted chayote fruit horizontally with the shoots facing upwards. Cover the fruit with soil, leaving the shoots exposed. Space multiple chayote plants at least 6-8 feet apart if planting more than one.
- Provide support (optional): Chayote plants are vigorous climbers, and it’s a good idea to provide a trellis or support structure for them to climb. This helps keep the vines off the ground and makes it easier to harvest the fruits.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Chayote plants like regular watering, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilize: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to the soil around the base of the plant every few months to ensure healthy growth and fruit production.
- Pruning: Prune the vines as needed to encourage bushier growth and better air circulation. This can help prevent disease and make it easier to harvest the fruits.
- Harvest: Chayote fruits are typically ready for harvest 4-6 months after planting. They are best picked when they are young and tender. Harvest by cutting the fruit from the vine with a sharp knife or pruning shears. Leave a small portion of the stem attached to the fruit.
- Store: Store harvested chayote fruits in a cool, dry place. They can be kept for several weeks to a few months.
