Extra early crops! Plants do not require pollination to set fruit, therefore adverse weather, poor light levels and a lack of bees do not affect cropping performance! Excellently flavoured, dark green, slightly speckled 15cm (6in) glossy, cylindrical fruits in abundance. Suitable for outdoors or the greehouse.

Sow April to May. Sow seed, 2cm (¾ inch) deep in 7.5cm (3 inch) pots of free draining compost. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag and place at 20-25C (68-77F) until after germination which takes 5 to 7 days. Do not exclude light, as this helps germination.

Can also be sown direct outdoors once the soil has warmed and risk of frost has passed. Sow 2 seeds every 60cm (24 inches) and thin out to the best seedling.

Gradually acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions for a few days before planting out after all risk of frost, 60cm (24 inches) apart.

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

Fry some onions with courgettes then pour in some beaten egg to make Fritatta. Grill some cheese on top then serve.