Spaghetti Squash
Cucurbita pepo
Spaghetti squash is a winter squash that grows as an oval yellow fruit on vigorous summer vines. The fruit stores well into fall and winter.
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Deep, regular watering
- Difficulty
- Easy
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Overview
Spaghetti squash is a winter squash in the species Cucurbita pepo. It is grown in summer and harvested in fall, then stored.
The oblong, yellow fruit forms on sprawling annual vines. It is easy and productive in the garden.
How to identify it
A trailing vine bearing oval, yellow, smooth-skinned fruit.
- Leaves: Large, broad, lobed, dark green with a slightly rough surface
- Stems: Long, trailing vines with tendrils
- Flowers: Large yellow-orange blooms; separate male and female flowers, bee-pollinated
- Fruit: Oval to oblong, smooth, pale to golden-yellow rind; pale interior flesh
- Habit: Vigorous ground-running annual; bush types exist for small spaces
Care & growing
Light: Full sun.
Water: Deep, regular watering as fruit develops; water at the base to reduce powdery mildew.
Soil: Rich, well-drained soil with plenty of compost; pH 6.0-6.8.
Temperature: Warm-season crop needing soil above 65 F and a frost-free season of about 90-100 days.
Feeding: Feed with compost and balanced fertilizer; reduce nitrogen once fruit forms.
Propagation: From seed sown directly after frost or started indoors; give the vines room to spread.
Habitat & origin
Spaghetti squash belongs to Cucurbita pepo, a species domesticated in the Americas thousands of years ago that also includes zucchini, acorn squash, and many pumpkins. The spaghetti type was popularized in the 20th century, with roots in East Asian and then North American cultivation.
It grows wherever summers are warm enough to ripen winter squash and, with its hard rind, stores for one to two months.
Frequently asked questions
When is spaghetti squash ripe?
Harvest when the rind has turned a deep, even yellow and is hard enough to resist a fingernail. The stem should be dry and the fruit feels heavy and firm.
Does spaghetti squash store well?
Yes. After curing, whole spaghetti squash keeps for one to two months in a cool, dry place.
How can I identify a spaghetti squash plant?
Look for a vigorous trailing vine with large lobed leaves, yellow-orange flowers, and oval, smooth-skinned fruit that ripens to a deep golden yellow.
How much space does it need?
The sprawling vines need plenty of room to run; give them several feet, or choose a compact bush-type variety for small gardens.
Spaghetti Squash guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Spaghetti Squash.
