A classic Italian variety, ‘Nero di Milano’ is a reliable and highly productive courgette, known for its dark green fruits, excellent flavour and vigorous growth. Selected by River Cottage, it’s a must-have for any kitchen garden.
Producing smooth, glossy courgettes over a long season, this variety is quick to establish and generous in harvest. Picked young, the fruits are tender and full of flavour, perfect for everything from simple summer dishes to more substantial meals.
Easy to grow and fast-growing, courgettes thrive in warm conditions and reward regular harvesting with continuous production.
- Organic courgette variety selected by River Cottage
- Dark green, smooth fruits with excellent flavour
- Highly productive and fast-growing
- Long cropping period through summer
- Ideal for beds, raised beds and larger containers
- Best harvested young for tenderness and taste
A dependable and rewarding crop that delivers abundance throughout the growing season.
Courgette 'Nero Di Milano' Organic Seeds by River Cottage
Sowing:
Sow indoors from April to May, placing seeds on their side around 2–3cm deep in individual pots. Alternatively, sow outdoors from late May to June once the risk of frost has passed.Germination:
Typically takes 7–10 days in warm conditions.Planting out:
Transplant once plants are well established and all risk of frost has passed. Space around 90cm apart to allow room for growth.Position:
Prefers a warm, sunny and sheltered position.Soil:
Grow in rich, fertile, moisture-retentive soil, ideally improved with compost or well-rotted manure.Care:
Water regularly and feed throughout the growing season. Mulching can help retain moisture and keep plants healthy.Harvesting
Harvest from June to September, picking courgettes when they are around 10–15cm long for the best flavour and texture. Regular harvesting encourages continuous production.
Top tip
Pick frequently - courgettes grow quickly, and regular harvesting keeps plants producing at their best.