LONG SQUASH (PREORDER)

~40 lbs Long Squash aka "Bottle Gourd", "Opo Squash", "Pul Qua", "Chang-Gua", "Pu-Gua", "Hu-Gua", "长瓜", "蒲瓜", "瓠瓜", "長瓜" Long squash is a softshell squash with a long cylindrical shape and smooth light yellow-green skin. Long squash can grow between six to thirty-six inches long and three to twelve inches in diameter. Long squash can be grown locally during the summer months for a cheaper option. The flesh is tender and white. Long squash has a mild and slightly sweet taste but changes to bitter once it hits maturity. Common application includes stir-fry and soup.  Handling Tip Selection Long squash is firm and heavy for its size. The skin is glossy with no signs of bruises or decay. The smaller size is generally tender and sweeter. Storage Long squash should be stored at 45°F - 50°F (7°C - 10°C) with a relative humidity of eighty-five to ninety-five percent and no mist. The typical shelf life is one to two weeks. Long-term storage leads to dull rind, dried or discolored stem end. Long squash is sensitive to ethylene, a naturally occurring gas that regulates ripening. Do not store long squash with high ethylene-producing products to extend shelf life and avoid yellowing. Long squash produces a low level of ethylene. Long squash is highly sensitive to chilling injury at storage below 45°F (7°C). Symptom includes pitted rind.