If you could only grow one winter squash this would be it. Oregon Homestead Sweetmeat squash, growing to 10-20 lbs each, are fantastic to eat any way you can imagine; soups, stews, quiche, pie, etc. Reselected by Oregon plant breeder and author Carol Deppe for vigorous growth, thick dry flesh, large tasty seeds and hardiness in variable climates. Stored in a frost free cool environment they can easily keep 6-8 months.

In most climates these crops can be direct seeded in the garden after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to 70-90 F. Plant seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep depending on size. The larger the seed, the deeper you want to plant. We plant our seeds in three foot wide beds and like to space squash about 18-24 inches apart. The larger the spacing the bigger your potential plant may grow.

If you want to get a jump on the season or your season is short, start these seeds in the greenhouse, under lights or outdoors. Beware, they grow quickly and you only need to start them 2-3 weeks before your transplant date. Allow winter squash to stay on vines as long as possible then store in a cool dry location for winter eating. Winter squash is ready for storage when your fingernail cannot easily puncture the rind. Summer squash should be picked small and often to encourage the plant to continue to produce fruits.

Squash plants are heavy feeders meaning they love well amended beds with plenty of nitrogen and compost.