Winter Squash Seeds, Tahitian Melon

Sku:
#SQ282
Minimum seed count:
10
star-filled
4.3
38 Reviews
$4.00

Description

(Cucurbita moschata). This near-legendary butternut type was one of the first that sparked the early heirloom movement. The fruit can reach up to 40 lbs, though 12-20 lbs is more common. Its orange flesh is exceptionally sweet—so sweet it caramelizes when baked. Ideal for pies, soups, or desserts, it can keep for up to nine months and produce up to 100 lbs of squash per plant. Rugged and large, the plants thrive even in the scorching summers of the Southwest. Introduced in 1977 by Thompson and Morgan, it originally came from seeds brought from Tahiti in the 1960s, inspiring dreams of exotic seeds and cultures.

  • 110 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

 Tahitian Melon squash grows best in warm, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Deep, consistent watering is essential, especially during fruit development. Mulching helps retain moisture and control weeds. Squash is not frost tolerant, so be sure to plant after all danger of frost has passed.

When to Grow

Plant after the last frost when soil temperatures reach 70 F or higher. You can start seeds indoors 4 weeks before the last frost or direct sow in late spring. Check local frost dates to determine the best time to plant for you.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/2-1 inch deep directly in the garden or in pots for indoor starts. Space plants 18-36 inches apart. When transplanting seedlings started indoors, make sure to harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before planting them in the garden, and be careful not to disturb the roots in the process.

How to Grow

Regular watering and fertilization with a balanced fertilizer are key to strong growth. The plants are heavy feeders, so provide them with nutrients throughout the growing season. Watch for pests such as squash bugs and vine borers, and use organic pest control methods when necessary. Training the vines on a trellis can save space and improve air circulation.

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

How long does it take for Tahitian Melon squash to mature?
It typically takes about 110 days, depending on growing conditions.

How large do Tahitian Melon squashes grow?
These squashes can grow quite large, some reaching 40 pounds; however, most of them are 12-20 lbs.

Is Tahitian Melon squash good for long-term storage?
Yes, after proper curing, Tahitian Melon squash stores well for several months, making it an excellent choice for winter storage.

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Winter Squash Seeds, Tahitian Melon
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4.3
Customer reviews (38)

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