Delicata Squash Curcurbita pepo

Easy 

Starting indoors

Use biodegradable pots to not disturb the root system. Harden off seed before transplanting outdoors. Ideal temp for germination is 85-95 F

Direct sowing in garden

Start sowing in early June

Easy

Seeds fully mature roughly 55 days after pollination. Scoop out seeds from plant. Rinse and dry seeds on a paper towel. Store in a cool dry place. If kept in proper conditions, seeds will store for about 4 years

🌅 Outdoors
Preferred conditions

☀️ Full Sun

• Temps: 🌡️ Prefers warm and dry conditions. Doesn't tolerate frost

• Hardiness Zones: 🗺️ 3 to 12 (2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map - Michigan)

• Humidity: 🌫️Hardier in warmer and drier conditions

• Water Conditions: 💧 Keep consistently moist, but avoid wetting leaves as this can lead to rot and mildew

• pH: 🧪 Acidic to slightly neutral

• Soil conditions: 🌱 Prefers a lot of organic matter. Can add compost to soil prior to planting

Summer

Deer are attracted to a young plants leaves, but may leave mature plant alone

Can be planted with corn to provide companion planting benefits