![]() ![]() When the plants reach 6-8 inches (15 to 20.5 cm.) tall, spread a layer of aged manure or rich compost 1 inch (2.5 cm.) deep by 4 inches (10 cm.) wide around the plants and then again when the first buds are plumping up, just before they bloom. To suppress weed growth and maintain moisture levels, spread 2 inches (5 cm.) of mulch in a 2-foot (0.5 m.) circle around the Delicata plants. After that, water deeply only when the top 2 inches (5 cm.) of soil is dry. Continue watering as needed for the next month, whenever the top inch (2.5 cm.) of soil dries out. Once the first set of leaves reaches 2 inches (5 cm.) long, remove and discard all but three plants. Keep the mound moist until the seedlings emerge. Water in the seeds until the mound is soaked. (21 C) for five to seven successive days, it is time to plant your Delicata winter squash.Įvenly space five Delicata seeds and press them into the soil at a depth of 1 inch (2.5 cm.). Once daytime temps are routinely above 70 F. With this amended soil, create a flat-topped, one square foot (0.1 sq. m.) of space.ĭig a 3-inch (7.5 cm.) layer of compost into the soil. m.) of garden space, but if growing vining Delicata squash, allow at least 20 square feet (2 sq. The Cornell Bush Delicata requires only 4 square feet (0.5 sq. When growing Delicata squash, choose a sight that will receive full sun. The plants will attain a height of 10-12 inches (25.5 to 30.5 cm.) with a 24- to 28-inch (61 to 71 cm.) spread. They can be either direct sown or sown indoors for later transplant. How to Grow Delicata Squashĭelicata squash plants have a short growing season and are mature within 80-100 days. If this sounds intriguing, then you probably want to know how to grow your own Delicata squash. This tender skin reduces the storage time somewhat compared to hard varieties such as Butternut or Acorn. Unlike other winter squash varieties, the skin of Delicata is tender and edible. Interior flesh is pale yellow and tastes much like a sweet potato and is, in fact, sometimes referred to as sweet potato squash or peanut squash. Its fruit is cream-colored with green stripes, oblong, and around 3 inches (7.5 cm.) across and 6 inches (15 cm.) long. ![]() As with most winter squash, the Delicata’s fruit is grown on a vine most commonly, although there is also a bush variety. pepo and is a relatively small variety of winter squash.Īdditional Delicata squash information tells us that this heirloom variety was introduced in 1891. Most varieties fall into three species groups:ĭelicata winter squash is a member of C. What makes Delicata winter squash so special? Delicata Squash InformationĪll winter squashes are members of the Cucurbit family, which also claims cucumbers and zucchini amongst its members. They tend to have a hard rind and can, therefore, be stored for future use in a cool, dry area for months. Contrary to their name, winter squash are grown at the peak of the summer season and are harvested in the fall. Like most squashes, it's fun to season delicata with both sweet and savory spices.Delicata winter squash is a bit different than other winter squash varieties. They are in season at the same time as other winter squashes like butternut, acorn, and pumpkin! Be sure to wash the squash well before roasting as the skin is usually coated in a wax used for preserving the squash.ĭelicata squash is available during the fall and winter. Yes! Delicata's skin is edible and is absolutely delicious. When roasted, the squash gets creamy and sweet and we can't get over how cute the flower shaped slices are! Its small size makes it much easier to handle than other squashes and it cooks much faster. Delicata squash is a winter squash that doesn't get enough attention. ![]()
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