Acorn Squash

Acorn squash grows well in compost-amended, freely draining soil with a pH near 6.0-6.8. Use moderate fertilizer as vines develop and maintain even moisture; too much nitrogen produces lush vines at the expense of squash.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Even moisture; about 1 in/week including rain

Spacing

36 in

First harvest

80–100 days

Tips

• Sow seeds 1 inch deep in soil at least 65°F and space plants 3-4 feet apart, allowing more room for long-vined varieties.
• Apply about 1-2 inches of water weekly during fruit growth without keeping foliage wet.
• Keep vines unpruned and place fruit on dry mulch to reduce soil contact.
• Check weekly for squash bugs and vine borer frass near the stem base.
• Harvest hard-rinded fruit when the ground spot turns deep orange; skip warm curing and store around 50-55°F.

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