Scientific Name: Cucurbita pepo

Common Names: Patty Pan Squash, this variety is also sometimes called Button Squash 'White Patty Pan'

Family: Cucurbitaceae (Squashes, Melons, Pumpkins, Cucumbers & Gourds)

Origin:

Cucurbita pepo is native to central America.  The origin of this 'Early White Scalloped Bush' variety is uncertain, but it is known to have been sold in markets in New York as early as 1835 so it's origin likely pre-dates this.

Culinary Uses:  

These squashes area ideal for steaming, grilling, dicing and adding to dishes, or for stuffing and baking.  Their texture is creamy and flavour is mild and delicious.  Their interesting shape can encourage children to eat them.  Flowers are also edible and can be stuffed and fried similar to zucchini flowers.

Cultivation:

'Early White Scalloped Bush' heirloom squashes are easy to grow and don't suffer from many pests or diseases.  Like most squashes powdery mildew can be a problem but this can be prevented by avoiding wetting the leaves when watering.  Pick early for best flavour and regularly to encourage further flower production.  More compact and bushy than other squashes, this variety can be grown in small spaces or even in larger pots on a balcony.  Keep well watered for best fruit production.  Prefers a soil pH around 6.5.  Grows best in full sun or light shade.

When To Sow:  

In temperate regions of Australia sow from October to December, ensuring not sow until any chance of frost has past.  In the subtropics sow anytime from August to March.  In tropical regions of Australia sow from February to September for best results.

How To Sow:

Squash seeds are large and should be sown about 2cm deep, spacing seeds about 75cm apart to allow for growth.

Germination Time:  

Squash seeds should germinate within 7-13 days after sowing.

Time To Harvest:  

Expect to harvest your first squashes 7-8 weeks after sowing the seed.

Button Squash 'Early White Scalloped Bush' fruit and flowers.