DESCRIPTION
Download Free Vegetable Growing Guide PDF
Growing American Tondo Winter Squash in the Vegetable Garden
Sow outdoors after danger of frost when soil is warm, or start indoors 3 to 4 weeks early in biodegradable cells to avoid root disturbance. Plant 2 to 3 seeds per hill and thin to the strongest plant. Space plants 36 to 48 inches apart in rows 60 to 72 inches apart. Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Feed at vining and early fruit set. Train vines away from walkways. Encourage bees for pollination. Support fruit on straw or boards to keep rinds clean and dry.
Harvesting of American Tondo Winter Squash
Harvest when rinds are hard, color is rich, and stems are corky. Cut with 2 to 4 inches of stem. Cure 10 to 14 days in a warm, dry, airy place, then store at 50 to 60 F with good ventilation for several months.
About American Tondo Winter Squash Garden Seeds
American Tondo is an old Italian-type heirloom grown for both kitchen use and decoration. Fruits are typically 8 to 10 pounds with pronounced ribbing and handsome green striping.
In the kitchen, roast wedges or cube and sauté; the moderately dry flesh turns sweet and velvety in pies, soups, and pasta dishes.
As decor, the bold ribs and color contrast make it a standout for autumn displays and farm stands.
Stories/Tips From Our Gardeners
"Give vines plenty of sun and airflow; a simple weekly rinse at the soil line (not the leaves) plus mulch keeps mildew pressure down during humid spells."
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- Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer
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American Tondo Winter Squash Seeds Per Package:
- 4 g Packet - Approximately 25 Seeds
- 1 oz - Approximately 175 Seeds
- 4 oz - Approximately 700 Seeds
- 1 lb - Approximately 2,800 Seeds
- 5 lb - Approximately 14,000 Seeds
- 25 lb - Approximately 70,000 Seeds
Non-GMO American Tondo Winter Squash seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.
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ATTRIBUTES
Basic Info
Latin Name: |
Cucurbita pepo
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American Tondo Winter Squash Color: |
Deep orange rind with green stripes; yellow-orange flesh |
American Tondo Winter Squash Flavor: |
Sweet, moderately dry; excellent roasted or in soups |
Growing Info
Hardiness Zone: |
Annual 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 |
Days to Maturity: |
100 |
Days to Germination: |
7 to 14 |
Seeding Depth: |
1 inch |
Plant Spacing: |
36 to 48 inches |
Row Spacing: |
60 to 72 inches |
Plant Height: |
12 to 24 inches |
Growth Habit: |
Vining |
Soil Preference: |
Rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture; pH 6.0 to 6.8. |
Temperature Preference: |
Warmer 70 to 95 F |
Light Preference: |
Full Sun |
Other
Direct Sow: |
Yes |
Start Indoors: |
Yes, 3 to 4 weeks before transplanting. |
Plant Width: |
72 to 120 inches |
Deer Resistant: |
No |
Germination Temperature: |
70 to 95 F |
Pests and Diseases: |
Watch for squash bugs, vine borers, cucumber beetles, and powdery mildew; use row cover until flowering and water at soil level to limit foliar disease. |
Garden Size: |
Greenhouse, Garden Plot, Raised Bed, Container, Fields |
Climate Tolerance: |
Heat, Humidity |