Thompson & Morgan Marrow Tiger Cross F1 Hybrid - 1 Seed Packet (12 Seeds)
The unique green and white stripes on these F1 marrows make them stand out from the others, matchi...The unique green and white stripes on these F1 marrows make them stand out from the others, matching the title of ‘Tiger cross’! You will not need to worry about these strong marrows as they are resistant to Cucumber mosaic virus! ‘Tiger cross’ will provide large crops from May to October! Enjoy these gorgeous marrows as soon as you pick or you can also store them in cool conditions for eating later! Sow marrow seed indoors from April to May for transplanting later on, or direct sow outdoors from late May to June. Prepare the soil in early spring by adding plenty of well-rotted farmyard manure to improve its structure and fertility. Indoors, sow seed at a depth of 2.5cm (1") into individual 7.5cm (3") pots of free-draining, seed sowing compost. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a plastic bag at a temperature of 20-25C (68-77F) until germination which takes 5-7 days. Do not exclude light, as this helps germination. Once germinated, grow marrows on in cooler conditions until all risk of frost has passed and marrow plants are large enough to be transplanted. Gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions over 7 - 10 days before planting marrows outdoors in rich fertile, well-drained soil in full sun at a distance of 90cm (36") apart. Cover with a protective netting or fleece to prevent attack from birds and insects. When growing marrows, a thick mulch of organic matter spread around the plants will help to conserve moisture at the roots. Alternatively direct sow marrows outdoors at a depth of 2.5cm (1") and a distance of 90cm (36") apart. Sow 2 seeds per hole and thin out the weakest seedling per station after germination.
Product Specifications:
Position: Full Sun
Height: Up to 45cm (17.7in) when fully established
Spread: Up to 90cm (35.4in) when fully established
Supplied as 1 packet of 12 seeds
Delivered with growing and care instructions
Images shown are for guidance only of the expected results from plants upon maturity.
Features:
British born and bred, providing large crops!
Resistant to mosaic virus!
Loved by the pollinating insects!
Half-hardy annual
Cucurbita pepo
Specifications:
Model Number: 25211
Thompson & Morgan - Marrow Tiger Cross F1 Hybrid SeedsFree delivery in 1–3 days£9.00Visit shop →
Product Information
Full details
This guide is for home gardeners looking for a distinctive and disease-resistant marrow variety. The 'Tiger Cross' F1 Hybrid offers a key benefit of attractive green and white striped fruits that are resistant to Cucumber mosaic virus, ensuring a healthier crop. A caveat is that these are half-hardy annuals, requiring specific sowing and transplanting conditions. This variety is known for producing large crops from late spring through autumn, with fruits that can be enjoyed fresh or stored.
All features
Model Part Number
25211
Brand
Thompson & Morgan
Extended Product Information
FAQs
When is the best time to sow 'Tiger Cross' marrow seeds?
You can sow seeds indoors from April to May for transplanting later, or direct sow outdoors from late May to June, once the risk of frost has passed.
What kind of soil is best for growing these marrows?
They thrive in rich, fertile, well-drained soil. It's recommended to prepare the soil in early spring by adding plenty of well-rotted farmyard manure.
How much space do these plants need?
Plants should be spaced 90cm (36 inches) apart to allow for their full spread.
Are 'Tiger Cross' marrows susceptible to pests?
While resistant to mosaic virus, young plants can be vulnerable to birds and insects. Protective netting or fleece is recommended initially. Ensure good aphid control.
Can I store the marrows after harvesting?
Yes, 'Tiger Cross' marrows can be stored in cool conditions for later consumption, in addition to being enjoyed fresh.
What does F1 Hybrid mean?
F1 Hybrid refers to the first generation offspring of a cross between two distinct parent varieties. F1 hybrids often exhibit enhanced vigor, uniformity, and yield.
What are the mature dimensions of a 'Tiger Cross' marrow plant?
When fully established, the plants can reach a height of up to 45cm (17.7 inches) and spread up to 90cm (35.4 inches).
Troubleshooting
Seeds fail to germinate indoors
Ensure consistent temperature (20-25°C) and adequate moisture. Check that the compost is fresh and free-draining. Do not exclude light.
Young plants are damaged by birds or insects
Use protective netting or fleece immediately after planting outdoors until the plants are more established.
Poor fruit development
Ensure plants are in full sun, have fertile soil, and receive consistent watering. Hand-pollination may be necessary if natural pollinators are scarce.
Plants show signs of mosaic virus
While resistant, severe outbreaks can still occur. Remove affected plants immediately to prevent spread. Ensure good aphid control, as they can transmit the virus.
Marows are rotting at the base
Ensure good drainage in the soil and avoid overwatering. Lifting the developing fruit slightly off the soil with a piece of wood or tile can help.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Attractive and unique fruit appearance.
High resistance to a common plant virus.
Consistent and abundant harvest over a long season.
Fruits are suitable for both immediate consumption and storage.
Supports local pollinators.
Vigorous growth and good yield potential due to F1 hybrid nature.
Cons
Requires specific indoor sowing conditions before transplanting.
Needs rich, well-drained soil and full sun.
Plants need protection from birds and insects initially.
Requires careful acclimatization to outdoor conditions.
Susceptible to frost until risk has passed.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Indoors:
Start seeds indoors from April to May.
Sow seeds 2.5cm (1 inch) deep in individual 7.5cm (3 inch) pots using free-draining seed compost.
Place pots in a propagator or seal in a plastic bag at 20-25°C (68-77°F) for germination, which typically takes 5-7 days. Do not exclude light.
Once germinated, grow plants in cooler conditions until all risk of frost has passed and they are large enough to transplant.
Gradually acclimatize plants to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days.
Direct Sowing Outdoors:
Prepare the soil in early spring by incorporating well-rotted farmyard manure.
Direct sow outdoors from late May to June.
Sow seeds 2.5cm (1 inch) deep, 90cm (36 inches) apart. Sow two seeds per hole.
Thin to the strongest seedling per station after germination.
Planting Outdoors:
Plant in rich, fertile, well-drained soil in a position of full sun.
Space plants 90cm (36 inches) apart.
Cover young plants with protective netting or fleece to deter birds and insects.
Care:
Apply a thick mulch of organic matter around plants to conserve soil moisture.
Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry periods.