Chouchou (chayote) is one of the most productive crops in Mauritius, growing year-round on vigorous climbing vines. It is used in soups, gratins, stir-fries, and even desserts. A single plant can produce hundreds of fruits per season.

Local names: Chouchou, Chayote, Christophine

Months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

Can be planted year-round in Mauritius. Most productive during the warm, rainy season (October–March).

• Soil type: Rich, well-drained soil with good organic matter
• pH: 6.0–6.8
• Compost: Dig a large planting hole and fill with compost and aged manure. Chouchou vines are heavy feeders over their long growing season.

• Seed type: Plant the whole sprouted fruit (seed germinates inside the fruit)
• Spacing: 3–4 metres between plants. Provide a strong trellis, fence, or pergola for climbing.
• Watering: Regular watering, 2–3 times per week. Increase during fruiting. Mulch to retain moisture.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade (5–8 hours daily)

Organic options:

• Compost
• Cow manure
• Banana peel fertilizer

Chemical options:

• NPK 10-10-10 every 6 weeks

Fruit fly

• Natural remedy: Protein bait traps and early harvest
• Chemical fallback: Malathion bait spray

Powdery mildew

• Natural remedy: Baking soda spray and pruning for air circulation
• Chemical fallback: Sulphur-based fungicide

• Days to maturity: 90–120 days for first harvest, then continuous
• Indicators: Fruits are 8–12 cm long, light green, and tender. Harvest before skin hardens.
• Yield tips: Pick regularly every 2–3 days to encourage continuous production. A mature vine can produce 50–100 fruits per season.

• Duration: 2–4 weeks
• Temperature: Cool room temperature or refrigerate at 7–10°C
• Tips: Store in a single layer in a cool, dry place. Do not stack as they bruise easily.