How to Grow Delicata Squash From Seed

Clear a space in your garden of at least 50 square feet. Delicata squash grows on the vine and needs 50 to 100 square feet to grow to maturity, according to the University of Illinois. Prepare additional spaces 5 feet apart for additional rows to give the vines room to grow.

Loosen the soil with a garden hoe. Use your hands to remove any rocks embedded in the soil. Mix a small amount of organic composite into the soil if desired.

Divide the 50 square foot space into four sections. Dig one hole 1 inch deep with a small garden shovel in each section. After the last frost passes and the soil starts to warm up, place one seed in each hole. Repeat for any additional rows.

Test the soil regularly to check for moisture. If the soil becomes dry, lightly water the seedlings. The squash will not grow as well in dry soil.

Look over the roots and vines when the plants start to mature and keep the best three plants. Remove the fourth plant to thin out the area and give the other plants more room to spread and mature.

Use a garden hoe to weed the area regularly. Remove any new weeds, as you see them, to avoid inhibiting the growth of your squash vines.

Spray the squash plants with insecticide once a week to prevent cucumber beetles or squash plants from destroying your crop. Spray the area in the late afternoon or early evening after the bees have left your garden.

Harvest your main crop of delicata squash in early fall, during September or October and before the first frost. Harvest any delicata squash that have a firm skin and full color.