Courgette Venus produces neatly compact plants which will produce a heavy crop of shiny, dark green cylindrical fruits throughout Summer. Will produce over an impressively long season if harvested regularly. Harvest from June to frosts, protect with cloches to extend the season.

Sow seeds from April to May. 2.5cm (1in) deep in pots or trays of good seed compost at 20C (68F) under glass or in a propagator. Protect emerging seedlings from direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Alternatively sow direct outdoors, 2.5cm (1in) deep from mid May.

Pot on individual seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots of compost and keep barely moist to avoid stem rot. Maintain a temperature of about 20C (68F). Plant out 75x75cm (30x30in) apart once frost risk passed. Outdoor plantings will be pollinated by insects but any planted in the greenhouse will require hand pollination. Feed plants with potash fertiliser once fruiting commences and water and mulch regularly. Pick at least 3 times per week for heaviest crops and to extend the season.

Prefers well drained, moist, rich soil in full sun.