(55 days) Open-pollinated. In the Pacific Northwest where breeder Carol Deppe lives, this shiny ridged gold zucchini of hers matures at 35 days from direct seeding, “which makes it possibly the fastest germinating and growing and most productive summer squash on the planet, including hybrids,” she declares. Here in Maine, we can expect mature fruit at around 55 days.
Unlike other zukes that are prime at about 8 oz size, Goldini II reaches peak culinary perfection at about 1 lb. More food, less labor! Carol says it’s still good for slicing and drying at 3 lb stage—she adds them to soups all winter. (Market gardeners may have to teach customers that this bigger size is optimal.) Fruits are relatively uniform, but leaves are diverse in shape and color. This is intentional; the heterogeneity adds to the vigor. As Carol avers, “If you want squash plants that are uniform for traits that don’t matter, grow something else.” She advises to harvest with gloves. “These plants are not open architecture, which requires plants short on leaves,” she says. “Plants grow and yield better if they have leaves.” Makes sense! Breeder Royalties. OSSI ①
This item is certified organic