Squash (Winter) Seeds - Table King Bush

Table King Bush is a compact, bush-type winter squash that produces sweet, flavorful fruits with a smooth, orange skin and fine-textured flesh. Known for its rich flavor and versatility in the kitchen, this variety is perfect for both small and larger gardens, providing high yields of delicious squash. Its compact nature makes it ideal for gardeners with limited space.

Key Benefits

• Compact Growth Habit: Ideal for small gardens or container growing, as it grows in a bush form rather than a sprawling vine.
• High Yield: Produces a consistent harvest of small to medium-sized squash, ensuring a bountiful supply.
• Delicious Flavor: Known for its sweet, nutty flavor and smooth texture, making it perfect for baking, soups, and roasts.
• Easy to Harvest: The compact nature allows for easier harvesting compared to vining varieties.

Variety Features

• Appearance: Table King Bush squash has a round, slightly flattened shape with a vibrant orange skin and a rich, sweet-flavored flesh.
• Size: Typically produces 4-6 inch diameter fruits, which are perfect for individual servings or small dishes.
• Maturity: Matures in about 90-100 days, ensuring an autumn harvest of sweet, flavorful squash.

Planting Instructions

Best Planting Season

• Warm Weather: Plant seeds after the last frost has passed and when the soil has warmed to at least 60°F (15°C).
• Sun Requirements: Plant in full sun for at least 6-8 hours per day for optimal growth.

Planting Details

• Sowing Depth: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep in well-drained, fertile soil.
• Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and healthy growth.
• Soil: Prefers loamy, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). Amend soil with organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Consistent Moisture: Water consistently throughout the growing season, especially when the plants begin to set fruit.
• Watering Frequency: Water deeply at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to fungal diseases. Early morning watering is ideal.

Light

• Full Sun: Ensure plants receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for the best yield.

Temperature

• Optimal Temperature: Table King Bush squash thrives in temperatures between 70°F and 85°F (21°C-29°C) and should not be exposed to frost.

Harvesting

When to Harvest

• Timing: Harvest the squash when the skin is firm and has turned a deep orange. The squash will typically mature 90-100 days after planting.
• Size: It is best to harvest when the fruits are 4-6 inches in diameter and the skin has fully ripened.

How to Harvest

• Harvesting Technique: Use a sharp knife or pruners to cut the squash from the vine, leaving a small portion of the stem attached to avoid injury to the fruit.

Storage

• Storage Conditions: Store harvested squash in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location, such as a pantry or root cellar.
• Storage Duration: Table King Bush squash can be stored for up to 2-3 months under the right conditions.

Culinary Uses

• Baked: Perfect for baking into pies, casseroles, and breads.
• Mashed: Roast or steam the squash, then mash it with butter, salt, and pepper for a delicious side dish.
• Soup: Use the sweet, creamy flesh to create comforting squash soups or stews.
• Roasted: Cube and roast with olive oil and seasonings for a savory side dish.

Conclusion

Table King Bush squash is a compact and productive variety that brings a rich, sweet flavor to your kitchen. Whether used in soups, baked goods, or roasted dishes, its versatile nature makes it an excellent choice for home gardeners. Enjoy the ease of growing and the abundant harvest this squash provides, all while saving space in your garden.