Courgette - Romanesco This is one of the best varieties for flavour. The courgettes have attractive, unusual, raised ridges which run along the fruits. It is an Italian favourite, with a distinct robust flavour. Sow indoors for surest results, March to May, 1.5cm deep, on edge, in small pots of compost. Water well and place in a warm position. A temperature of 15-20°C is ideal. Keep moist. Seedlings usually appear in 7-14 days. Gradually accustom plants to outside conditions, avoiding frosts, before planting out 60cm apart, into fertile, well-drained soil, during May or June when frosts are over. Or sow outdoors, from April to May for ease, where they are to crop, 1.5cm deep, directly into finely-prepared, fertile, well-drained soil, which has already been watered. Allow 60cm between sowing positions. Sow two seeds on edge per position. Early sowings benefit from cloche protection. Thin to leave the stronger plant. Water well until plants are established. Harvest from July to October. Cut the courgettes when they are about 15cm long, or leave to mature as marrows.
