Squash - Delicata

SKU: SQ34149A
CA$3.90
CA$3.90
Unavailable
per item
Approximately 5 seeds per gram.
Cucurbita maxima
Lot# SQ34149
Also called the ‘Sweet Potato Squash”, the Delicata squash is a smaller cylindrical winter squash.  The oblong shaped squash are 12-31 cm (5-12”) long and weigh between 0.5-1kg (1-2lbs) each.  The cream-colored skin has green striations, and as the squash matures, the skin becomes a deeper yellow with orange - green striations.  It has dense orange flesh and tastes like sweet potato.  A good winter keeper.
 Planting Instructions:   
  • Squash seedlings do not really transplant that well, but it can be done if you are careful. Start transplants at least 3-4 weeks before last spring frost.  Sow 2 or 3 seeds 12mm- 2.5cm (½-1”) deep in pots.  When the seedlings are 5-7cm (2-3”) tall, select strongest seedling and thin to 1 plant per pot using scissors. Harden off seedlings gradually by cutting back on water and expose them to sunlight daily.  Seedlings should have more than 2 to 3 true leaves prior to transplanting outside. Transplant once the soil is warm up to at least 15-21˚C (60-70˚F).  Plant 2 transplants per hill.  Space hills 2.4-3.0m (8-10’) apart.  If planting in rows space seedlings at 41-61cm (18-24”) apart.  Space rows 1.8m (6’) apart if you have the space available.
  • Direct sow seeds into garden from late May to mid-June.  Sow 3 or 6 seeds 12mm- 2.5cm (½-1”) deep into hills that are 1.8m (6’) apart.  Thin seedlings to 2 per hill. 
  • Soil Conditions:  Well worked, rich, loose, well-drained soil. Ideal pH: 5.5-6.5
  • Planting Depth:   Sow seeds 12mm- 2.5cm (½-1”) deep.
  • Germination:  7-12 days.
  • Height at Maturity:  Plants reach 30.5 cm (12”) tall. Trailing vines can reach 3-4.5m (10-15’) long.  Allow at least 20 square feet of space.
  • Days to Maturity:   Long season 80-110 days.
  • Watering:  Most squash varieties have moderate water requirements. Water slowly with 2.5-5cm (1-2”) of water per week. Allow water to completely soak the soil 15-20cm (6-8”) deep. This will ensure good growth, whether vegetables are grown in single hills or wide rows. The amount of rain that falls during the week will help supplement how much you should water your garden.  Soil should remain moist. Avoid getting water on the leaves to help control diseases.  Water in the morning if possible to allow leaves to dry if they do get wet.  This will help in preventing leaf diseases.  Decrease watering later in the season to encourage fruit to mature.
  • Sun/Shade:  Full Sun     
  • Spacing after Thinning:   Space transplants 2-3 plants per hill that are 2.4-3.0m (6-15’) apart, if you have the space available.