Trio of Zucchini Caserta Summer Squash on a white background.
Caserta Summer Squash with leaves and blooms on dark blue background.
Caserta Summer Squash with blooms and curly stems on wooden cutting board.
Whole and sliced Caserta Summer Squash with blooms on a variegated gray background.
Trio of Zucchini Caserta Summer Squash on a white background.
Caserta Summer Squash with leaves and blooms on dark blue background.
Caserta Summer Squash with blooms and curly stems on wooden cutting board.
Whole and sliced Caserta Summer Squash with blooms on a variegated gray background.

Summer Squash Seeds,
Zucchini Caserta

4.314 ReviewsSKU: #SSQ138Min. seed count: 20
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Description

(Cucurbita pepo). All America Selections winner in 1949. Here’s an early bush cocozelle type, popular in Italy where they favor a rich, full-flavored zucchini. Fruit is slightly club-shaped with mottled striping in olive green and darker green. Can reach a fairly large size and still be quite tender and delicious as a summer squash.

Growing Tips: Caserta squash is a vigorous, early-producing summer squash with striking light and dark green striping. It thrives in rich, well-drained soil and performs best when watered deeply and regularly. Harvest frequently to encourage continuous production and tender fruits. Use mulch to reduce weeds and conserve soil moisture. Provide plenty of space and airflow to help prevent powdery mildew and other foliar diseases.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cucurbita pepo
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Bush
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
50–60
Planting Depth
1 in.
Plant Spacing
24–36 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Caserta squash after the danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed to at least 70°F. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 2–4 weeks before the last frost and transplant once the soil is consistently warm. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Direct sow Caserta squash seeds 1 inch deep in fertile, well-draining soil after the last frost. Space plants 24 to 36 inches apart in rows or hills to allow room for growth and airflow. In areas with short growing seasons, start seeds indoors under lights and harden off before transplanting. Don’t let them become rootbound; don't disturb roots while transplanting. Keep soil evenly moist during germination and early growth stages.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent soil moisture and feed plants with compost or organic fertilizer every few weeks to support vigorous growth. Caserta squash prefers warm weather and will flourish with 6–8 hours of sunlight daily. Use mulch to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture. Monitor for squash bugs and cucumber beetles, and remove them promptly to protect plants from damage and disease.

How to Save Seeds

Note that there are four different species of squash: Cucurbita maxima, C. pepo, C. moschata, and C. mixta. They will not cross pollinate with each other, so it is possible to grow one of each species for seed saving without worrying about cross pollination. If you are planning to save seeds from several varieties of the same species, you can bag the blossoms and hand pollinate to avoid crossing.

  • Allow fruit to fully mature on the vine until the skin becomes firm and dull.
  • Harvest mature squash and cure for 2-3 weeks in a warm, dry area.
  • Cut open and remove seeds and pulp.
  • Rinse seeds to remove pulp and dry on a screen or paper towel in a well-ventilated area for 2–3 weeks.
  • Store in a cool, dry place in a labeled envelope or airtight container.

FAQ

Can Caserta squash be harvested young for best flavor?

Yes, Caserta squash is best picked when 6–8 inches long. At this stage, the skin is tender, and the flavor is mild and sweet, perfect for grilling, sautéing, or raw preparations.

Is Caserta squash a bush or vining type?

Caserta is a semi-bush type summer squash, offering a more compact habit than vining varieties while still producing prolifically. It works well in raised beds and larger containers.

How can I prevent pests from damaging my Caserta squash plants?

To reduce pest pressure, use row covers early in the season, remove plant debris, and inspect regularly for squash bugs or beetles. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can offer organic control when needed.

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