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Gem Squash

Squash

Cucurbita pepo var. gemmifera

  • Full sun
  • Zones 3–11
  • 70 days to maturity
  • Vegetables
  • 36" spacing
  • Moderate water
  • pH 6–7
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  • 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.