Description
| Seeds | 10 seeds $2.95 |
|---|
Delicata (c.pepo)
Heritage: New York, USA
This variety’s long history of Aboriginal cultivation remains a mystery. What we do know is that New York horticulturalist Peter Henderson introduced it took North American gardeners in the mid 1890’s. Throughout the years that followed the original strain of this variety was developed into a smaller plant with more uniformity in fruit production (re-named using only “Delicata”)
Vining plants produce slightly ridged oblong fruits 7-9” (18-23cm) in length, weighting up to 1lb (454g). Skin is a lovely ivory-cream, detailed with dark green striping. The flesh is exceptionally fine-grained, perhaps a touch on the dry side, but oh-so-sweet and very rich – just like a sweet potato. Average keeper, eat fresh or freeze before January. Matures in 90-100 days. (9 seeds/g)
Tips for Growing Succulent Squash! Squash are heat loving plants and are usually planted outdoors when the ground has warmed. Seeds can be started indoors, but we find more vigorous growth when direct planted. It is important to pick a sunny spot so the large leaves can dry-out easily early in the morning to avoid water-born diseases. Hill-up soil and plant 2-4 seeds 1” (2.5 cm) deep. Thin to no more than 2 plants per hill. To enhance the size of your Winter Squash, watch for early development of fruit and cut-off the new growth end of the vine to ensure all the energy is focusing on producing that one squash. Again, more sun produces larger fruit. For Summer Squash, frequent picking will promote continual production. The most suitable companion plants for Squash are; corn, beans and radishes. Do not plant near potatoes. They don’t play well together. Squash usually germinates within 7-10days (70-75ºF/21-24ºC).
