Winter Squash Seeds, Long Island Cheese Pumpkin

star-filled
4.4
42 Reviews
Sku:
#SQ128
Min. seed count:
20
$3.00

Description

(Cucurbita moschata). A longtime favorite on Long Island, very popular for pies. Flat, lightly-ribbed fruit looks like wheels of cheese, with buff-colored skin. A very good keeper, of excellent quality, 6-15 lbs each; a beautiful heirloom variety.

  • 105 days to maturity
  • 6-8 hours of full sun
  • Sprouts in 5-10 days
  • Seed Depth: 1/2-1” 
  • Plant Spacing: 18-36"
  • Ideal Temperature: 70-95 F
  • Frost Hardy: No

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Long Island Cheese pumpkins thrive in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. They require full sun, so plant them in a sunny spot with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or aged manure to provide necessary nutrients.

When to Grow

Plant seeds after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 65 F, as squash cannot tolerate frost. In cooler regions, start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost and transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/2-1 inch deep, spaced 3-5 feet apart in rows or mounds to allow room for the sprawling vines. If starting indoors, transplant seedlings carefully to avoid root damage. Water the seeds well after planting and keep the soil moist until germination.

How to Grow

Water regularly, providing about 1-2 inches of water per week. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer, particularly when plants begin to flower and set fruit.

How to Save

  • 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

What are the ideal growing conditions for Long Island Cheese pumpkins?
These pumpkins require full sun, well-drained soil, and consistent moisture. They thrive best in nutrient-rich soil amended with compost.

How long does it take for Long Island Cheese pumpkins to mature?
They typically take about 105 days to mature from planting to harvest. The pumpkins are ready to harvest when the skin hardens and the stem starts to dry out.

What are common pests and how can I manage them?
Common pests include squash bugs and vine borers. Regular inspection and using organic treatments like neem oil or insecticidal soap can help manage these pests effectively.

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Winter Squash Seeds, Long Island Cheese Pumpkin
star-filled
4.4
Customer reviews (42)