Winter Squash Seeds,
Tahitian Melon

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. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

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.

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.

• There are four main 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.