Squash, Winter – Delicata

Introduced to America in 1894 it is an heirloom delicacy with a sweet flavor that is similar to sweet potatoes. As its name suggests it has a delicate rind that can be eaten. It is also known as peanut squash, Bohemian squash, or Sweet Potato Squash. Vines produce abundantly cream colored green striped oblong fruits that are about 3 inches diameter and 6 inches long. Rich in Vitamin A, C, Fiber, Potassium. Flesh is orange, fine textured, and sweet. Delicata is great for soups, entrees, grilled, stuffed, sauteed, roasted, and baked. Its easy to grow and early to ripen. Your in for a treat!
Sowing: Plant in full sun outdoors in spring after all danger of frost and soil is warm. Sow seeds 1 inch deep in moist well drained soil. Keep seedbed moderately moist during germination. Plant in hills or rows.
Germination: 10-14 days Light: Full Sun
Days to maturity: 80-100 days Spacing: 36 inch plant spacing. Row spacing: 6 feet
Moisture: Keep well watered during growing season. Soil: Fairly rich, well drained, fertile soil Height: 18-24 inches
Information: Apply mulch around base of the plant. Harvest before first frost in the fall. Harvest by cutting from the vine leaving 2-3 inces of stem. Handle carefully. them from the vine. Can be eaten at harvest or stored for 4 months in a cool place.