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Growing Acorn Squash from Seed to Harvest

Growing Acorn Squash from Seed to Harvest

Mary Smith |

Acorn Squash is a winter squash variety with a tough skin, making it an excellent crop to store for extended periods.

What's the difference between Summer Squash and Winter Squash?
 The physical characteristics between summer and winter squash are stark. Summer squash tend to have very thin skins that are edible and easily damaged. The seeds of summer squash are present in the flesh and are edible raw. The flesh of the summer squash is very tender and very perishable. The skins of winter squash varieties are thick, inedible and tough. Winter squash have hollow cavities in the center where hard seeds are located. The flesh of the winter squash is very dense.

Ebony Squash: Prolific 8' vines produce 1.5-2 pound fruits.

The Table Queen Bush Squash (pictured) is a great option for smaller spaces. As a bonus, it matures faster than it's vining counterparts.

One squash can easily be made into an entire meal for 2!

Planting Acorn Squash Seeds
Direct Sow squash seeds after your last chance of frost.  Soil should be 60F or warmer for optimal germination.  Sow seeds 1/2 -1 inch deep and keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

Vining squash varieties will need more space than bush varieties so plan ahead when planting.  Bush varieties should be planted 20 inches apart, while vining can be planted in hills.

Squash is a heat tolerant crop that can be grown in Spring, Summer and into Fall.  From Seed to harvest, Ebony Acorn Squash can take 80-110 days depending on weather, soil health and variety of squash.


Companion Plants for Acorn Squash

Beans, corn, cucumbers, icicle radishes, melon, mint, onions and pumpkin. Helpers: Borage deters worms, improves growth and flavor. Marigolds deters beetle. Nasturtium can deter squash bugs and beetles.

Oregano provides general pest protection. Dill may repel the squash bug that will kill your squash vines. Generously scatter the dill leaves on your squash plants. Keep squash away from potatoes.

Nasturtium and basil flowers

 

Harvesting & Storing Acorn Squash

Acorn Squash is ready to be picked when the skin is tough.  You can use a fingernail to test it.

Once your acorn squash has been harvested, store them in a cool, dry area. It will keep for several months if given the right temperatures. Usually this is between 50F and 55F.

We have a delicious harvest recipe for Baked Acorn Squash.  There is a vegetarian and omnivore option.

BAKED ACORN SQUASH

 

If you have additional questions, please feel free to ask!
Email: mary@marysheirloomseeds.com
HAPPY PLANTING!


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