Squash (Winter) Seeds - Acorn Table Queen

Acorn Table Queen is a classic variety of winter squash known for its distinctive acorn shape, vibrant green skin with golden-yellow patches, and sweet, nutty flavor. This squash is a versatile, easy-to-grow variety that produces small to medium-sized fruits, making it ideal for individual servings. Acorn Table Queen is perfect for roasting, stuffing, or baking, and its compact size makes it an excellent choice for small gardens or containers. Enjoy the rich taste and creamy texture of this squash in a variety of dishes during the cooler months.

Key Benefits

• Sweet, Nutty Flavor: Known for its rich, slightly sweet flavor with a nutty undertone, perfect for roasting or stuffing.
• Compact Size: Smaller size makes it easy to manage in small gardens or containers.
• High Yield: Produces a generous number of fruits per plant.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for baking, stuffing, or pureeing into soups and stews.

Variety Features

• Appearance: Acorn Table Queen squash has a distinct acorn shape with dark green skin that often features yellow or orange markings. The flesh is golden and sweet.
• Flavor: Mildly sweet with nutty undertones, perfect for savory and sweet dishes alike.
• Size: Typically, Acorn Table Queen squash grows to about 1 to 2 pounds, making it ideal for individual servings.
• Texture: The flesh is smooth and creamy when cooked, perfect for mashing, stuffing, or pureeing.

Planting Instructions

Best Planting Season

• Warm Season: Plant after the last frost has passed, when the soil temperature is at least 60°F (15°C) or higher.
• Sun Requirements: Full sun exposure is essential for strong growth—at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Planting Details

• Sowing Depth: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep into well-drained, fertile soil.
• Spacing: Space plants about 24 to 36 inches apart to allow for vine growth.
• Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5).

Care Instructions

Watering

• Consistent Moisture: Squash plants require consistent moisture, especially as the fruits begin to develop.
• Watering Tips: Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Light

• Full Sun: Ensure plants receive full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.

Temperature

• Optimal Growing Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 70°F and 85°F (21°C-29°C).

Harvesting

When to Harvest

• Mature Squash: Typically ready to harvest 80-100 days after planting, when the squash has turned deep green or golden yellow, and the skin is firm to the touch.
• Signs of Maturity: The squash should be hard to the touch, and the vines will begin to die back, signaling that the fruit is fully mature.

How to Harvest

• Harvesting Method: Use a sharp knife or shears to cut the squash from the vine, leaving a few inches of stem attached. Handle carefully to avoid bruising the skin or damaging the flesh.

Storage

• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place with temperatures between 50°F and 60°F (10°C-15°C). Properly stored, Acorn Table Queen squash can last for up to 3 months.
• Storage Tips: Make sure the squash is fully cured before storing to ensure longevity.

Culinary Uses

• Roasted: Slice and roast with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple yet flavorful side dish.
• Stuffed: The small, acorn shape makes it perfect for stuffing with grains, vegetables, meats, or even rice and cheese.
• Baked: Use in baked dishes, including casseroles or pies, for a smooth, sweet filling.
• Pureed: Mash or puree the flesh for soups, stews, or as a base for sauces and gravies.

Conclusion

Acorn Table Queen Squash is a beloved winter squash variety known for its delicious sweet flavor, rich texture, and attractive appearance. With its compact size and high yield, it’s perfect for gardeners with limited space. Whether roasted, stuffed, or pureed, this squash provides versatility and flavor in the kitchen. Its excellent storage capabilities ensure you can enjoy it throughout the winter, making it an essential addition to your garden for the colder months.