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Delicata Squash

Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.

Delicata Squash

Squash

Cucurbita pepo

  • Full sun
  • Zones 3–11
  • 95 days to maturity
  • Vegetables
  • 24" spacing
  • Annual
  • pH 6–6.8
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  • Overview

    Delicata Squash is an heirloom winter squash known for its elegant, pale yellow-green oblong shape with thin, edible skin when mature. This variety reaches harvest readiness in approximately 95 days, producing small to medium-sized fruits (6-9 inches long) that develop golden-orange undertones as they ripen. The thin, tender rind distinguishes Delicata from other winter squashes and can be eaten when cooked. Its defining characteristic is its exceptionally sweet, creamy flesh with subtle corn and sweet potato notes, making it ideal for roasting, sautéing, or use in both savory and dessert applications. Despite its refined flavor profile, Delicata is surprisingly easy to grow in full sun conditions.

  • Planting

    Direct sow after soil reaches 65°F, or start indoors 3-4 weeks before last frost. Plant seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep.

  • Growing

    Sun: full. Soil pH: 6–6.8. Space plants 24" apart. Germination: 7-12.

  • Pests & diseases

    Common pests: Squash bugs, cucumber beetles, aphids. Common diseases: Powdery mildew, bacterial wilt, squash mosaic virus.