Basics

Ease of Growing
Moderate
Grown as
Annual
Days to Maturity
100-105 (Spring/Summer)
Growing Habit
Vine
Hardiness
Tender

Winter Squash are quite frost tender and cannot be planted until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Don't put them out before the temperature reaches 65˚ F daily.

Crops
Spring Transplant, Summer
Growing Season
Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Warm, Hot

Winter Squash are sprawling plants, notorious for taking up a lot of room; so do not plant them in the middle of the intensive garden. They take a lot less space if grown vertically on trellises or cages, but then of course they cast a considerable amount of shade. Generally it is best to plant them in hills at the edge of the garden and let them run off into unused space. The site of an old compost pile by a wire fence is perfect. Once established they can compete with almost any plant, so long as their roots are in good soil and they are well fed and watered.

Outdoor Growing Temp
60°F - 90°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
65°F

Don’t plant out until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up and the temperature reaches 65° F daily (when the Apple trees blossom.) 

Start Indoors
Yes
Start Outdoors
Yes
Light
Water
High

The plants need an evenly moist soil for maximum productivity. The best way to water squash is in the morning with a soaker hose or drip irrigation, as wet foliage can easily lead to fungus diseases, especially with cooler nighttime temperatures.

Water moderately early in development and heavier after fruits form.

Feeder
Heavy

High nitrogen. Moderate potassium. Moderate phosphorous. Squash have a very vigorous root system, which may go down 6 feet in its search for nutrients.

Suitability
High heat, Needs lots of space
Small Gardens?
No
Containers?
No
Attracts beneficial insects?
No
Color
Tan
Fruit Size
7.0 - 11.0"
Plant Height
12.0 - 18.0"
Plant Diameter
24.0 - 36.0"
Hardiness Zone
3-12
Disease Resistance
Taste Profile

Smooth texture and sweet rich flavor. Perfect for baking.

Rotation Group
Fruits: Solanaceae + Cucurbits