How to Grow Chayote

Updated June 2026

A warm-season fruiting for the home garden across the warmer US.

Chayote is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Chayote in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the chayote page for exact timing.

Varieties

Green Chayote, Plant a whole sprouting fruit (grocery fruit / nurseries)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 6.6 ft between plants.
Sowing: sow about 2 in deep.
Water: roughly 2.1 gal per plant every 3 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Few. In humid regions, Powdery mildew can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Chayote is usually ready to harvest in about 4 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant chayote where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

Find your region →