Spaghetti squash, named after the famous Italian pasta, is an easy-to-grow fruit with interesting culinary uses.
In Brief: What You Need to Know
- Name: Cucurbita pepo
- Family: Cucurbitaceae
- Type: Vegetable
- Height: 20 to 50 cm
- Exposure: Sunny
- Soil: Rich
- Harvest: September-October
Discover More: All our articles dedicated to squash
From Sowing to Harvest: Growing Your Spaghetti Squash
Sowing and Planting Spaghetti Squash
Depending on your region’s climate, spaghetti squash is sown from February to March under cover and in pots, with transplantation after the risk of frost, or directly in place from May.
Spaghetti squash dislikes cold and requires a warm to temperate climate to grow well. It prefers rather rich soils, so amend the soil with compost or fertilizer before planting.
Direct Sowing of Spaghetti Squash:
You can also sow directly into the ground from May onwards, provided you have a nice late season after summer in your region. Amend the soil with compost or fertilizer at planting and allow at least 1 meter between each plant.
Spaghetti Squash Care
Pinch the stems above the 3rd or 4th leaf to stimulate plant growth and achieve better production. Once well developed, mulch around the plant to retain soil moisture and prevent fruits from rotting by touching the ground.
Watering Spaghetti Squash:
Spaghetti squash needs water, especially in hot or prolonged dry spells. Water in the morning without wetting the leaves.
Harvesting Spaghetti Squash
Harvest the squash when it turns a deep yellow color and the skin is smooth. Each plant produces around 3 to 5 squashes weighing between 2 and 4 kg each. Store them in a dry place at a temperature of 10-15°C, avoiding moisture which reduces storage time.
About Spaghetti Squash
This squash, a member of the large cucurbit family, is certainly one of the most surprising. Its unique flesh transforms into long filaments resembling spaghetti when cooked, hence its name. Although not as flavorful as other squashes, its spaghetti-like appearance has made it famous. Low in calories and rich in vitamin C, it also has recognized antioxidant properties. Spaghetti squash seeds are perfectly edible and can be dried for use in salads or simply salted for snacking.
