How to Grow Acorn Squash
February 20, 2023
Acorn squash is a type of winter squash that has a dark green or orange skin with a sweet, nutty flavor. It's rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals making it a great addition to any meal. The flesh is also packed with antioxidants, making it a healthy and nutritious food choice. Acorn squash can be roasted, steamed, boiled, and even grilled for a variety of ways to enjoy it.
Acorn squash is a type of winter squash that is unique to growers and offers a unique flavor that is perfect for meals and snacks alike. A great way to enjoy the flavor of acorn squash is to grow it yourself! Here is a guide to help you grow acorn squash in your own garden.
Choosing Your Location
When growing acorn squash, it is important to choose a warm and sunny spot for the best harvest. Squash needs plenty of direct sunlight during the growing season, and will benefit from at least 6-8 hours of full sun per day. Additionally, squash plants will need to be provided with soil that has excellent drainage. This can be achieved by including organic matter such as compost in the soil.
Preparing the Soil & Planting Your Squash Seeds
Before planting squash seeds, the soil should be amended with 2-4 inches of organic material such as compost. This will help improve the soil structure, allowing for better drainage and increased fertility for the growing squash plants. Squash plants should be planted 1-2 inches deep in the prepared soil, spaced about 4-5 feet apart. Squash should be planted after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up to a minimum of 65°F.
Caring for Your Acorn Squash
Squash requires regular watering during the growing season. Soil should be kept evenly moist, but not overly wet. Additionally, squash plants will benefit from a thin layer of mulch around their base which helps keep soil moisture levels regulated. As the plants begin to flower and vine, they may require staking or support to keep them upright as they grow. Squash should be harvested when they have reached a desired size and color, and their skin is still tender.
Pests & Diseases
Squash can be subject to a variety of pests and diseases. Common pests including squash bugs, beetles, and aphids, and can be combated with insecticidal soaps and neem oil. Diseases such as powdery mildew, bacterial wilt, and downy mildew can also effect squash plants and should be treated with copper or sulfur fungicides. It is important to promptly identify and treat any pests or diseases to ensure a healthy crop of acorn squash.
Harvest & Storage
When harvesting acorn squash, use a knife or pruners to cut the squash from the vine. Allow the squash to cure in a warm and sunny area for a few days before storing them in a cool, dry area. Acorn squash will keep for several months when stored in the right conditions, allowing you to enjoy your harvest throughout the season.
By following these steps and with a bit of patience and care, you can have a plentiful harvest of delicious acorn squash that you have grown yourself. Enjoy!
