It's rare in life you find something SO delicious, you would eat it every day! Delicata Winter Squash is an excellent heirloom often referred to as sweet potato squash for its rich, irresistibly sweet, nutty flavor and tender flesh - and you will see why with the very first bite!
Delicata is the absolute best winter squash for long-term storage. There's no better way to enjoy summer sunshine in the depths of winter. High in calcium, potassium, folate, and vitamins A and C. Easy to grow and when baking - the skin is edible!
100 days. Weighing in at 1-3 lbs each, gorgeous cream-colored, loaf-shaped fruit with dark green longitudinal stripes. This old heirloom was introduced in 1894 by Peter Henderson and Co.
~ germination/growing ~
When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, and when soil temperature is 70°–85°F.
When to Start Inside: Not recommended except in very short growing seasons, 2 to 4 weeks before transplanting. Roots are sensitive to disturbance; sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted directly into the ground. Transplant when soil temperature is at least 60°F.
Days to Emerge: 5–10 days
Seed Depth: ½–1"
Seed Spacing: 2–3 seeds per mound
Row Spacing: 4'–6'
Thinning: When 3" leaves, thin to 1–2 per mound
Squash needs full sun, rich fertile soil and warm temperatures. Plant only when weather is warm and settled and night temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C).
~ harvesting ~
Delicata needs the full growing season to mature properly. When rinds are tough enough to resist a fingernail, cut fruits from vines with a good stem. Let them cure for 10 days in the sun, then store in a cool dry place.
