Question
squash?
I transplanted a small plant which began growing in my vegetable garden to a new location during the spring. I thought it was a zuchinni plant, because that is the only type of squash I had ever planted in that garden. However, as it grew I realized it was not like any zuchinni I've ever grown. The fruit are green at the top, gold in the middle and green on the bottom third. They are round to oval shaped. So far, I've been unsuccessful at identifying it online. I thought it might be a hybrid, but I've never planted any winter squash or melons in my garden before.
When would be the best time to pick it? Is it safe to eat it not knowing exactly what type it is?
Thank you.
AnswerLisa:
Looks like the Hasta la Pasta spaghetti squash, but if it was a "volunteer" it is most likely a cross between whatever curcubits you grew in your garden last year. It wont hurt to try it, treat it like any winter squash (though it could also be a summer squash, so you could pick one now just to see).
Winter squash ripen in the fall.The variety will determine the color at maturity, yours look to be mature color, they are probably ready to eat but not storage.
For long-term storage, wait until the stem turns brown and shriveled, the plant itself may be beginning to brown out. Also, your fingernail should not pierce the shell when pushed into it. But do make sure to pick all of them before frost hits.
Elyse
