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How to Grow Spaghetti Squash

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Spaghetti Squash (Cucurbita pepo)

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🌿 Plant Overview

Scientific Name Cucurbita pepo
Category vegetable
Type Vine
Days to Maturity 90 days
Starting Method Start Indoors

☀️ Growing Requirements

☀️

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

💧

Water

Regular (1 inch/week)

↔️

Spacing

48" apart

🌱

Depth

1" deep

📏

Height

12-18"

🌱

Germination

5-10 days

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🌾 Seed Saving Guide

🟡 Moderate
✅ Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Cure squash for 1 month after harvest before extracting seeds.

Processing

Scoop seeds, rinse thoroughly, dry flat on screen for 2 weeks.

Seed Viability

Up to 4 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Spaghetti squash is C. pepo — crosses with zucchini, acorn, and pumpkin. Isolate by 500 feet.

Seed Storage Supplies

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Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 2 plants of Spaghetti Squash. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Spaghetti Squash? +

Start Spaghetti Squash seeds indoors 4 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

How long does Spaghetti Squash take to grow? +

Spaghetti Squash typically matures in about 90 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Spaghetti Squash indoors or direct sow? +

Spaghetti Squash should be started indoors 4 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

How much sun does Spaghetti Squash need? +

Spaghetti Squash requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Spaghetti Squash? +

Space Spaghetti Squash plants 48 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Spaghetti Squash need? +

Spaghetti Squash has regular (1 inch/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Spaghetti Squash? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Spaghetti Squash is rated moderate. Cure squash for 1 month after harvest before extracting seeds. Scoop seeds, rinse thoroughly, dry flat on screen for 2 weeks.

How long do Spaghetti Squash seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Spaghetti Squash seeds remain viable for up to 4 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Spaghetti Squash seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes — Spaghetti Squash is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Spaghetti Squash

Winter squash whose cooked flesh separates into noodle-like strands. A popular low-carb pasta substitute. Stores well for several months.

Expect your Spaghetti Squash to be ready for harvest in approximately 90 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.