Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) Cultivation in India: A Review

Abstract

Background: Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) belong to the family Cucurbitaceae and is an exotic crop grown in both open field and protected conditions. It is recently been popularized in India due to yield and health benefits and grown in various climatic and soil conditions. Methods: This crop is raised initially in polybags in Jorhat and Darrang of Assam and then transplanted in polythene mulched field conditions. It is grown from March-April in mild summers of North India and grows from September to December in lower hills or plains according to package of practice. Result: Various location specific spacing and fertilizers are incorporated in this crop and growth regulators like Ethrel are incorporated to promote the number of female flowers. This crop can provide huge income revenue if exported in near future.