Whole and sliced Delicata Winter Squash on a white background.
Delicata Winter Squash stacked up on a table against a black background.
Bakes and whole fresh Delicata Winter Squash on a wooden cutting board with utensils.
A man holding a trio of Delicata Winter Squash at the Baker Creek trial farm in California.
Stuffed Delicata Winter Squash arranged on plate with Whole and sliced squash in the background.
Whole and sliced Delicata Winter Squash on wooden cutting board against a jade background.
Whole and sliced Delicata Winter Squash on a white background.
Delicata Winter Squash stacked up on a table against a black background.
Bakes and whole fresh Delicata Winter Squash on a wooden cutting board with utensils.
A man holding a trio of Delicata Winter Squash at the Baker Creek trial farm in California.
Stuffed Delicata Winter Squash arranged on plate with Whole and sliced squash in the background.
Whole and sliced Delicata Winter Squash on wooden cutting board against a jade background.

Winter Squash Seeds,
Delicata

4.225 ReviewsSKU: #SQ111
Price
Regular price $3.00
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $3.00
Save $-3
/

Min. 20 seeds

FREE U.S. SHIPPING2-YEAR GUARANTEE

Description

(Cucurbita pepo). High sugar content. Fruit is 1 to 3 lbs each, and skin color is rust-white with green stripes. Delicate sweet flavor. This old heirloom was introduced in 1894 by Peter Henderson and Co.

Growing Tips: Delicata squash grows best in full sun, 6-8 hours of sunlight daily, and well-drained, fertile soil. Regular watering and mulching are crucial to ensure healthy growth and prevent weeds. The ideal temperature for optimal growth is 70 F to 95 F.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cucurbita pepo
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
100
Planting Depth
½–1 in.
Plant Spacing
18–36 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Delicata squash after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently above 65 F. In most regions, late spring to early summer is ideal for direct sowing. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last expected frost and transplant them outdoors once the soil has warmed. 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

Sow seeds 1/2-1 inch deep, spaced 18-36 inches apart, in rows 3-6 feet apart. If starting indoors, plant seeds in trays with a sterile starter mix, and transplant them outdoors once they are a few inches tall and all danger of frost has passed. Don’t let transplants become rootbound, and be careful not to disturb roots while transplanting. Delicata squash can also be grown in containers or raised beds, making it versatile for different garden setups​.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent moisture, especially during hot and dry periods. Water deeply once a week, focusing on the base of the plants to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to fungal diseases. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks, preferably one lower in nitrogen and higher in phosphorus and potassium to encourage fruit development​.

How to Save Seeds

  • 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 grow several varieties of more than one species, you can bag the blossoms and hand pollinate to avoid crossing.
  • Whether it is a summer or winter squash, you must let the fruit completely mature before extracting the seeds, and cure for at least two weeks.
  • Scoop the seeds, place them in a bucket, and add just enough water to cover. Let sit at room temperature to ferment for two days before rinsing off the pulp.
  • Lay seeds out to dry on newspaper or paper plates.
  • Stored in a cool, dry place, seeds will remain viable for up to four years.

FAQ

Can Delicata squash be grown in containers?

Yes, Delicata squash can be successfully grown in containers, provided the container is large enough (at least 12 inches deep) and has good drainage.

What are common pests and diseases for Delicata squash?

Common pests include squash bugs and cucumber beetles, while diseases like powdery mildew and bacterial wilt can affect the plants. Regular monitoring and early intervention, such as using neem oil or organic pest control methods, can help manage these issues.

How long does Delicata squash take to mature?

It typically matures in about 100 days, depending on growing conditions.

Browse our full range of winter squash seeds.

Customer reviews

4.2 / 5 25 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Sweet, edible skin: Sweet flesh and thin skin you can roast and eat.

  • Prolific vines: Sets lots of small squash with little care.

  • Single-serving size: Small fruit, right for one or two people.

  • Climbs a trellis: Vigorous vines sprawl wide; happy to climb a trellis.

  • Heads up: Powdery mildew hits some gardens; treat at first sign.

More to grow!
See all Squash Seeds