Cucurbita maxima Shokichi Shiro Mixture F1 – Colorful hybrid winter squash mix

The Cucurbita maxima Shokichi Shiro Mixture F1 is a unique F1 hybrid winter squash mix that stands out for its variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. This mix combines the charm of several Shokichi Shiro F1 varieties, including light, gray, and green skins, making it an excellent choice for gardeners and professional growers seeking ornamental and culinary versatility. The Shokichi Shiro Mixture F1 offers high yields, uniform growth, and a unique visual impact in the home garden or at the market.

Features and properties

The Shokichi Shiro Mixture F1 belongs to the Cucurbita maxima , known for its robust plants, winter hardiness, and aromatic flesh. Key characteristics of this hybrid variety include:

• Variation in colours: light green, cream and grey-blue

• Round to slightly flattened fruits with smooth or slightly ribbed skin

• Average weight of 3 to 6 kilograms per fruit, ideal for cooking, selling and processing

• Deep orange, aromatic flesh with a slightly sweet, nutty flavour

• Hybrid traits for uniform growth and consistent harvest

• Strong, robust plants with good resistance to diseases

Thanks to the mix of colours and shapes, this variety is not only culinary valuable, but also very decorative and attractive to consumers.

Cultivation and care

The Cucurbita maxima Shokichi Shiro Mixture F1 grows best in a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil. The vines need sufficient space to develop healthy fruits. Growing advice:

• Sow indoors or under glass in April-May

• Plant out after the Ice Saints, when soil temperatures are above 15°C

• Planting distance of 1.5 to 2 meters per plant for optimal air circulation

• Enrich the soil with compost or well-decomposed organic fertilizer

• Regular watering during flowering and fruiting for firm fruits

Its robust growth and hybrid properties make this variety suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Culinary applications

The flesh of the Shokichi Shiro Mixture F1 is firm, aromatic and deep orange, making it versatile in the kitchen:

• Creamy pumpkin soup and puree

• Roasted pumpkin slices

• Stews and casseroles

• Sweet preparations such as pumpkin pies, muffins or bread

• Can and freeze for later use

The firm texture and aromatic flavour make the variety ideal for both savoury and sweet dishes.

Shelf life

A major advantage of Shokichi Shiro Mixture F1 is its long shelf life. When harvested at full maturity and stored in a cool, dry place, the fruits can last for several months without loss of quality. This makes the mix ideal for long-term consumption, sale, or decorative uses.

Decorative value

The combination of different colours and shapes makes the Shokichi Shiro Mixture F1 particularly suitable for:

• Autumn and winter decorations

• Market and sales presentations

• Creative flower or pumpkin arrangements

The mix provides an attractive visual effect and increases the decorative value of each harvest.