The delicata squash vine is a tender - skinned squash racquets introduce by Peter Henderson and Company in 1894 . After the Great Depression , there was a great declination of delicata squeeze in markets . Thanks to a group from Cornell University ’s Department of Plant Breeding , today we have a disease resistant non - hybrid open pollinated bush variety that can be grown in less garden blank .
Delicata Squash Description
Delicata squash is a cylindric fruit which has a ointment - colored with green stripes outer rind and a golden yellow to orange inner flesh . Most are 6 inches long and 3 in wide , dead sized for a two - mortal meal . This sweet-smelling - try out squash is also know as sweet white potato squash , peanut squash , or Bohemian squash racquets .
Delicata squash is reap and salt away like otherwinter squash , though technically a summer squash vine ( Cucurbita pepo ) . Its outer rind is not as surd as other winter squash varieties such as butternut and acorn .
Varieties of Delicata Squash
The sweet - smack delicata squash is available in bush varieties and the heirloom vining variety . The bush mixed bag can be grown in about 4 square foot . The vining variety bring forth vines requiring about 20 square fundament .
Best Growing Conditions
Once you determine you have enough garden space for the delicata squash , there are other all-important aspects to consider :
Avoid growing plants of the cucurbit family ( cucumbers , melon , pumpkins , squash ) in the same locating two year in a row . Pest anddiseaseproblems will be increased if this is done .
Before planting outdoors , add 2 - 3 column inch of constitutional compost and mix to a deepness of about 12 column inch . An organic plant food should be added at the time of planting to give the flora a robust start .
Planting Delicata Squash
Delicata squash flora can be started in pots then transfer or directly seed into the outside filth . From germination to harvest home should only be about 100 days . Each method acting has specific details that should be followed .
Transplant Seedlings
Transplants should be set forth indoors two to four weeks before the last hoar . Sow the seed 3/4 inch deep into pot that are 5 inches deep . When the soil and atmosphere temperature are right and seedlings have only one set of reliable leaves , it is outside planting time . Plant the seedling 36 inch apart .
Direct Sowing of Seeds
When the soil and air temperature are right , it is time to direct sow delicata squash seed . Sow the seeds 1 inch deep . Thin to the healthy seedling growing 36 inches apart .
