Pattypan Squash Orange

Pattypan Squash Orange: variety and characteristics

Pattypan Squash Orange (Cucurbita pepo) is an annual vegetable of the Gourd family (Cucurbitaceae). This patty pan squash is bright orange.

It gives a high yield, saucer-sized with a scalloped edge.

An interesting summer squash with a delicate flavour. It is not suitable for storing for more than a week or two.

It is best eaten fresh.

The pumpkin is the symbol of the autumn garden — for roasting, pies, soups, purées and long winter storage. Besides edible ones, there are also ornamental varieties for decoration.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 96%
• Seeds per packet: 9–13 pcs (0.8 g)
• Seed origin: Ukraine
• Sowing: April; direct or seedlings
• Harvest: October
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Pattypan Squash Orange

Pattypan Squash Orange seeds are sown in April. Harvest takes place in October. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Pattypan Squash Orange

• Sowing method: direct or seedlings
• Depth: 3–4 cm
• Spacing: 1–2 m
• Germination: 5–10 days at 20–25 °C
• Position: sunny spot

Sow seeds in 8 cm. pots in April and May. Plant in the growing site once all danger of frost has passed. Plant at a distance of at least 60 cm. Continue to water if the weather is dry after planting. Harvest approximately 70 days after planting. Harvest the pumpkins when they are ready, from September to November. Squash of this type is most tender when unripe and is a good source of magnesium, niacin and vitamins A and C. It is low in calories and contains no fat.

Sow directly into warm soil (above 15 °C) at 2–3 seeds per hill, or plant transplants at 3–4 weeks. The pumpkin likes rich, fertilised soil and generous watering when the fruit sets.

Harvest and use

Harvest when the stalk dries and the skin cannot be dented by a fingernail. Leave pumpkins in the sun for 1–2 weeks to “cure” before storing.

Frequently asked questions

When should Pattypan Squash Orange be sown?

The recommended sowing month is April. Sowing method: direct or seedlings.

How many seeds are in the packet?

The packet contains 9–13 seeds, pack size 0.8 g.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 96%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.

How long does a pumpkin keep?

Well-ripened pumpkins with the whole stalk keep for 3–6 months in a dry, cool place (10–15 °C).

When is pumpkin sown?

Directly outdoors after the last frosts — late April and May; for an earlier harvest, transplants from early April.