Mirliton Madness in Harvey

The Louisiana mirliton is disappearing. But, there is hope.

In recent years, Lance Hill has become an unexpected mirliton midwife. He has assembled a fleet of farmers, backyard growers, and foragers to search for and propagate disappearing heirloom varieties of this unique vining, chayote squash. They scour farmers markets, garage roofs, storm fences and other places where fruit can still be found. I just viewed video footage of an incredible mirliton orchard in Harvey.

West Bank micro-farmer Leo Jones has taken over one city block for trellising mirlitons. It supports a canopy of 300 shoots. Thanks to Lance’s efforts, this huge concentration of mirlitons will seed future gardens. Click here to see the video footage yourself.

For the Farmers Market Minute, this is Richard McCarthy.