Winter Squash Heart of Gold vegetable Seeds, Heirloom Varieties for Home Gardening

Winter Squash Heart of Gold Seeds – Growing Guide

Key Attributes

Product Name: Winter Squash Heart of Gold Seeds
Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO
Growth Habit: Bushy, semi-compact vines
Mature Size: 12-18 inches tall with 3-5 foot spread
Days to Maturity: 85-100 days
Fruit Size: 2-4 pounds per squash
Flavor Profile: Sweet, nutty, and creamy
Hardiness: Drought-tolerant, thrives in warm climates
Light Requirements: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil (pH 6.0-7.0)
Uses: Roasting, soups, baking, and stuffing

Planting Instructions

Direct Sowing (Preferred Method)

• Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil temperature reaches at least 65°F (18°C).
• Plant seeds 1 inch deep, spaced 3-4 feet apart in rows 5-6 feet apart.
• If growing in mounds, plant 3-4 seeds per hill, thinning to the strongest 2 plants.

Indoor Sowing (For Short Growing Seasons)

• Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost.
• Transplant seedlings outdoors when they have 2-3 sets of true leaves and temperatures remain above 55°F (13°C).

Care & Maintenance

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and fruiting. Deep watering is recommended.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and a side dressing of compost mid-season.
• Mulching: Helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Support: While compact, some plants may benefit from staking if fruit is heavy.

Harvesting

• Squash is ready when the rind hardens and resists puncture with a fingernail.
• Cut the fruit from the vine, leaving a 2-inch stem for better storage.
• Cure in a warm, dry place for 7-10 days before storage.

Pest & Disease Control

• Common Pests: Squash bugs, vine borers, and cucumber beetles—use row covers or neem oil.
• Common Diseases: Powdery mildew and downy mildew—ensure good airflow and avoid overhead watering.