Q.Chayote squash, best for low temperatures
The chayote squash found in the local stores come from Mexico and have a very smooth skin. A friend grows some that have quite a rough skin with whiskers or growths on them. Are these different varieties? If so, which one would be best to try in an area that is questionable because of cold weather. It appears I am on line that is a maybe. I may try both, however would be good to know more. Thank you,

Certified GKH Gardening Expert
They have a few different variations but are not cold hardy. As far as growing them... I'm afraid that you are a little too far outside of their growing zone. They will barely scrape by in zone 7 and you are in 6. They just won't have enough time. This article will explain things a little more in detail: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/chayote/growing-chayote-squash.htm