Sweet Meat Squash
Cucurbita maxima
kyoo-KUHR-bee-tah MAX-eh-muh
Edibles: Fruiting Vegetable
Min. Temp
Very Tender: 38°
Sweet Meat is a beloved heirloom winter squash that is typically associated with the northwestern US, though it can be successfully cultivated in other regions as well. Many claim that this one is, hands down, the best squash for pumpkin pie. This is a delightfully sweet variety that can be stored for up to 6 months.
Appearance
Summer Foliage
Green
Fall Foliage
Green
Flower Color
Yellow
Blooming Time
Mid Summer - Fall
Habit
Vining
Height
24–30 in
Spread
60–96 in
Form
Winter Squash
Characteristics
Type
Heirloom
Safety
Edible Parts
Growth Rate
Fast
Tolerance/Resistance
Heat Tolerant, Drought Tolerant
Attracts
Attracts Honeybees & Pollinators
Uses/Placement
Culinary
Optimal Growing Conditions
Sun Exposure
Full Sun: 8-12 hrs
Soil Texture
Sandy
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil Moisture
Moist
Soil PH
Slightly Acidic: 6.0-6.5
PH Tolerance
Prefers slightly acidic soil
PH Correction
High pH can reduce nutrient uptake
Soil Amendment(s)
Compost
Fertilizer
Heavy Feeder
Fertilizer Formula
Rooting & Blooming
Fertilizer Timing
Pre-Fruiting
Micronutrients
Magnesium (Mg)
Care
Care Level
Moderate
Behavior and Propagation
Spreading
Moderate Spreader
Propagation Method
Monoecious--pollination required
Propagation Licensing
Open propagation permitted
Division Timing
Do Not Divide
Fruit and Pollination
Days to Harvest
95 Days
Fruit Size
Medium
Fruit Characteristics
Sweet
Ploidy
Diploid