50 DAYS
Cucurbita pepo
Sunburst squash is a vibrant yellow summer squash celebrated for its unique scalloped shape and tender, buttery flavour. This early-maturing variety is not only a treat for the palate but also versatile in the kitchen, ideal for grilling, sautéing, or adding to salads for a splash of colour. Easily grown in various garden settings, it thrives in warm weather while adding beauty and taste to your vegetable patch.
Size: Mature plants reach up to 20 to 30 in. tall and 18 to 24 in. wide, producing 3 to 4 in. diameter squashes.
Yield: Expect a generous yield throughout the growing season, with plants producing multiple squash if well cared for.
Taste: Delicately sweet and buttery, the flesh is tender with a delightful texture that enhances any dish.
How to use: Best when harvested young, this squash shines in grilled dishes, stir-fries, or as a colourful addition to salads. Can also be stuffed or baked for more elaborate recipes.
Planting tips: Sow seeds directly in well-drained, fertile soil after the last frost when the soil temperature reaches at least 21°C. Space seeds 18 to 24 in. apart in rows 3 to 4 ft. apart, providing ample sunlight for optimal growth.
Harvest tips: Harvest squashes when they are 3 to 4 in. in diameter for the best flavour and tenderness. Regular picking encourages continued growth and fruiting.
