Round De Nice Zucchini

Round de Nice zucchini, also known as Ronde de Nice, is a French heirloom variety of zucchini that is named after the city of Nice. As its name suggests, it has a round shape, unlike the more common elongated shape of most zucchini varieties.

 

The Round de Nice zucchini typically grows to a diameter of 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) and weighs around 4 to 8 ounces (113 to 227 grams). It has a dark green, smooth skin that is firm and shiny. The flesh is tender and creamy white, with a mild, sweet flavor.

 

This zucchini variety is relatively easy to grow and is a popular choice for home gardeners. It is a warm-season vegetable that requires full sun and well-draining soil. Seeds can be sown directly into the garden after the last frost date, or started indoors 2 to 4 weeks before transplanting.

 

The plants should be spaced 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) apart to allow for adequate air circulation. Regular watering is important, especially during hot, dry weather, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season.

 

Round de Nice zucchini can be harvested when the fruit is around 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) in diameter, which typically occurs about 45 to 50 days after planting. The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked, and is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine in dishes like ratatouille and stuffed zucchini.

 

Seeds per pack: 15

• Soil: Choose a location with well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for zucchini is between 6.0 and 7.5.

• Sunlight: Zucchini requires full sun to grow and produce fruit, so choose a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

• Planting: Direct sow Round de Nice zucchini seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Space the seeds 3-4 feet apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart. Alternatively, start the seeds indoors 2-4 weeks before your last frost date and transplant them outdoors after the soil has warmed up.

• Watering: Zucchini needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply once or twice a week, making sure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged.

• Fertilizing: Zucchini is a heavy feeder, so it's important to provide it with regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer at planting time, and then switch to a high-nitrogen fertilizer once the plants start setting fruit.

• Pruning: Round de Nice zucchini doesn't require much pruning, but you can pinch off the growing tips of the main stem once the plant reaches a height of about 2 feet to encourage bushier growth.

• Pest and disease control: Watch for common zucchini pests like aphids, squash bugs, and cucumber beetles, and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Keep an eye out for diseases like powdery mildew and bacterial wilt, and take preventive measures like using mulch and avoiding overhead watering.