Cucurbita pepo Polo F1 – White patisson with uniform fruits and versatile applications

Cucurbita pepo Polo F1 is a unique and versatile variety of patisson squash, also known as UFO pumpkins. This variety is known for its uniform, bright white fruits and its characteristic shape, which is slightly less flat than that of the traditional Custard White . Instead, Polo F1 fruits have a subtle, slightly bell-shaped texture that is very attractive both culinary and decoratively.

Pattypan squashes are among the most versatile varieties in the Cucurbita pepo family, and Polo F1 is no exception. Its bushy growth habit, fast ripening, and culinary quality make it a valuable addition for both amateur and professional gardeners.

White UFO pumpkin with uniform fruits

Polo F1 berries are typically harvested at a ripening diameter of approximately 15 cm. They are attractively white and have a typical UFO shape, though less flat than classic patissons. This uniform growth makes the variety particularly suitable for market sales, display, or cultivation in the home garden where consistency is important.

Once fully mature, Polo F1 also makes an excellent ornamental pumpkin. Its bright white color and even shape create an elegant look in autumn decorations, arrangements, and window displays.

Young harvested: can be used as zucchini

What makes Polo F1 extra special is its versatility. Young-harvested patissons can be prepared like zucchini: the flavor is mild, fresh, and slightly nutty, and the texture is juicy yet firm. This makes them ideal for stir-fries, grilled dishes, casseroles, and other summer dishes.

Regular harvesting when young also stimulates new fruit formation, which keeps the plant productive for a longer period of time.

As the fruits fully ripen, they develop a harder skin and become more suitable as decorative gourds.

Bushy growth and high productivity

Polo F1 is a bushy variety, meaning it produces fewer vines than many other pumpkin varieties. This keeps the plant compact and manageable, ideal for smaller gardens, raised beds, and intensive cultivation systems. Despite the limited growing space, fruit set remains excellent.

With a ripening time of 50–80 days, Polo F1 is one of the earliest patisson varieties. This allows for a quick harvest, and in some cases, a second crop in the same season is feasible.

Growing instructions for Polo F1

Sowing

• Pre-sowing: from the end of April indoors or in the greenhouse.

• Direct sowing: from early May in warm, well-drained soil.

• Germination temperature: 24–30 °C, for optimal and rapid germination.

• Insert seeds with the pointed side down or lay them flat.

• Keep the soil slightly moist, but never wet to prevent mold formation.

After germination, seedlings should be moved to a brighter, cooler location to develop strong, compact plants.

Planting out and location

Cucurbita pepo thrives best in a sunny, warm spot with nutritious, well-drained soil.

For Polo F1, a planting distance of approximately 1 m² per plant is recommended. Its bushy growth requires relatively little space, but adequate air circulation remains important for healthy development.

Application in kitchen and decoration

Polo F1 is ideal for gardeners who want a dual-purpose variety:

• Culinary: Can be harvested young like a courgette, suitable for baking, grilling, stuffing and stir-frying.

• Decorative: Ripe fruits make excellent white ornamental pumpkins for autumn and table decorations.

The combination of taste, shape and colour makes this variety attractive for both hobby use and commercial sales.

Conclusion

Cucurbita pepo Polo F1 is a versatile, bushy patisson variety that stands out for its uniform, white fruits and rapid development. The ability to use the fruit young as a zucchini and, once ripe, as an ornamental squash makes this variety exceptionally versatile. Its compact growth, reliable yield, and attractive fruits make Polo F1 an excellent choice for vegetable gardens of any size.