How Do You Grow Chayote Squash?

Growing Chayote Squash: A Gardener's Guide

Chayote squash, also known as mirliton or vegetable pear, is a curious plant. It doesn’t come from seeds; instead, you plant the whole fruit. The first time I grew it, I was skeptical. But trust me, this vining wonder will reward you with a sprawling cascade of green and a generous harvest.

Start with the Right Chayote

You’ll need a mature, whole chayote to get started. Look for one at the store or farmers’ market with a firm, unblemished skin. It should already have a small shoot or two poking out of the stem end. This tiny sprout is the plant’s starting point.

Once home, keep the fruit in a shady, warm spot to encourage that shoot to grow longer. In my experience, it’s best to wait until the shoot is about 4–6 inches long before planting.

When and Where to Plant

Chayote loves the warmth. Plant after the last frost when daytime temperatures consistently hit 70°F. This tropical lover isn’t a fan of cold feet—or roots, for that matter.

Choose a spot with plenty of space; this plant sprawls like an unruly houseguest. A strong trellis or fence is a must. Without it, the vines will take over your garden faster than you realize.

Planting the Fruit

Dig a hole about 6 inches deep, slanting the fruit so that the sprout sticks just above the soil line. The broad, rounded end of the fruit should point downward. It feels odd planting an entire squash, but don’t overthink it—it works!

Backfill the soil gently, water well, and step back. This isn’t a plant that appreciates hovering. Trust the process.

Caring for Your Chayote

Once established, chayote grows like it’s trying to win a race. Regular watering is key, though. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. I’ve found a deep soak once or twice a week works wonders, especially during dry spells.

Heavy feeders, these vines thrive with a monthly dose of compost or organic fertilizer. I scatter composted manure around the base of the plant, and it practically doubles in size overnight.

Training the Vines

It’s not an overstatement to say that chayote vines will take over if left unchecked. Guide them up a trellis or structure early on. I once let mine go wild, and weeks later, it was strangling my tomato cage like a slow-motion boa constrictor.

Prune excess growth if it starts to dominate other plants, and redirect wandering vines. This keeps the plant manageable and prevents your garden from turning into a jungle.

When to Harvest

Chayote is ready to harvest when the fruit reaches about 4–6 inches in diameter. The skin should be firm and glossy. Don’t let them sit on the vine too long, or they’ll toughen up.

Pro tip: Pick chayote while it’s still tender, and you’ll avoid the leathery skin and fibrous texture that comes with overripe fruit.

Use garden shears or a sharp knife to cut the fruit cleanly from the vine. Handle with care—chayote vines are surprisingly prickly, and I’ve had my fair share of scratches.

Pests and Problems

Chayote is remarkably resilient, but watch out for powdery mildew and root rot. Good airflow and well-draining soil are your best defenses.

If aphids or spider mites move in, mix up a batch of neem oil spray. I’ve also had success just blasting them off with a jet of water. Don’t be afraid to get a little aggressive.

Why Grow Chayote?

Beyond its unique planting method and vigorous growth, chayote is a star in the kitchen. It’s versatile enough to fry, steam, roast, or toss into soups and stews. Its mild flavor makes it a blank slate for bold seasonings.

Plus, one plant can produce dozens of fruits. You’ll find yourself sharing with neighbors—or sneaking them into their mailboxes. (I’ll neither confirm nor deny having done this.)

Final Thoughts on Chayote

Growing chayote squash is like inviting a bit of chaos into your garden. But it’s the kind of chaos that pays off in spades. Follow these tips, give it space, and watch this vigorous vine transform your space.

And don’t be surprised if it becomes a conversation starter. There’s something delightful about saying, “Oh, that? I planted an entire squash, and look what happened.”

- Chayote is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-grow vegetable that is most commonly served raw. It is native to Mexico and the southern United States and can be grown as an annual or as a perennial depending on where it lives. - Chayote is a very easy vegetable to grow, only needing a sunny outdoor area with warm weather and a container that is at least twice as large as the seeds themselves. - you can grow chayote seeds from a small container that is at least twice as large as the seeds themselves and you can add an inch of fresh organic compost to the container where you will be growing your seeds.