Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.
Gem Squash
SquashCucurbita pepo var. gemmifera
- Full sun
- Zones 3–11
- 70 days to maturity
- Vegetables
- 36" spacing
- Moderate water
- pH 6–7
Overview
A unique South African heirloom that produces small, round squashes perfect for individual servings and container growing. These charming little squashes start cream-colored and develop beautiful golden-yellow skin at maturity, with sweet, tender flesh that's delicious when simply steamed or roasted whole. Gem squash is prized for its compact size, attractive appearance, and excellent storage capabilities.
Planting
Direct sow after soil temperature reaches 65°F, planting seeds 1 inch deep. Excellent for succession planting every 2-3 weeks.
Growing
Sun: full. Water: moderate. Soil pH: 6–7. Space plants 36" apart. Germination: 7-12.
Pests & diseases
Common pests: Squash bugs, cucumber beetles, aphids. Common diseases: Powdery mildew, bacterial wilt.