Growing Choko/Chayote, also Chayote squash, christophene, chouchou, mirliton

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06 Apr 22 Tim (New Zealand - temperate climate)
I live in Rotorua and planted a choko seedling 3 years ago in a north-facing spot that gets lots of sun and warmth in summer, and where the vines can grow up over and along the deck railings. (This year it has 'taken over', climbing up the old cable of a TV aerial!) Each year it has grown bigger, and this year it has produced a lot of flowers, but these are all male! The cold weather will be here soon, and the top growth will get killed back by the first frosts. I'm thinking that it's a waste of space and the growing season here too short for any fruits to develop. Is there anyone in the Central North Island who has had any success with chokos outdoors, or should I dig it out and use the prime sunny location for something else?
20 Apr 22 Tira Avery (Australia - temperate climate)
Victoria, Australia. We started to grow choko this year as we just learnt that chokos can be a perennial (dying back in winter) here in Victoria. Thai people eat both its young tips and leaves as well as its fruit.
09 Apr 22 Nadege (Australia - arid climate)
Hi there It's always a tough decision to take down a beautiful, healthy plant. If you have something else lined up for the spot then take it down with gratitude and put it in the compost where the nutrients can be recycled. I find that always helps me to do it with this knowledge in mind. Otherwise, if you like it and have nothing else for that spot, keep it and see how it turns out.
08 Apr 22 Anonymous (Australia - temperate climate)
You are temperate NZ and by the guide here it won't grow in your area. It needs warmer weather.
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