Tortarello, 'Abruzzese Chiaro'

Germination

Sow directly Apr-Jun, after danger of frost has passed. Sow into prepared soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Make a small hole and place 2-3 seeds in each hole, cover with a little soil. Allow 30-40cm spacing in rows 100cm apart. Minimum germination temp. 10°C. Thin seedlings as required.

Growing

Prefers well-drained rich soil which is warm and continually moist, not wet. A glasshouse or poly tunnel is ideal. Can be grown outside in warmer sites. Will require a support on which to grow. Top dress with compost when white roots are visible. If leaves start to yellow use a liquid tomato fertiliser. Feed weekly once fruits start to form.

Cultivation

Harvest when slightly smaller than a regular Cucumber, 25cms approx.