Summer Squash Seeds,
Rugosa Friulana

Direct sow Rugosa Friulana seeds after the last spring frost once soil temperatures reach at least 70°F. In shorter-season climates, start seeds indoors 2–4 weeks before the final frost and transplant when conditions are suitable. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Plant seeds 1 inch deep in well-prepared soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Space plants 36 to 48 inches apart to ensure good airflow and room to grow. In cooler regions, start indoors and transplant once seedlings have developed two true leaves and outdoor temperatures are consistently warm. Keep the soil moist during germination.

Water regularly at the base and avoid wetting foliage to prevent disease. Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize monthly with compost or organic vegetable feed. Harvest fruit when young and firm—about 6-8 inches—for best taste. Monitor for squash vine borers and other pests, applying organic solutions as needed.

Note that there are four different species of squash: Cucurbita maxima, C. pepo, C. moschata, and C. mixta. They will not cross pollinate with each other, so it is possible to grow one of each species for seed saving without worrying about cross pollination. If you are planning to save seeds from several varieties of the same species, you can bag the blossoms and hand pollinate to avoid crossing.

• Allow squash to mature fully on the vine until skin becomes firm and deeply wrinkled.
• Harvest and cure squash in a warm, dry area for 2–3 weeks.
• Cut open the fruit and scoop out seeds, removing attached pulp.
• Wash seeds thoroughly and lay them out in a single layer to dry.
• Dry seeds for 2–3 weeks in a well-ventilated space before storing.
• Store seeds in a cool, dry container labeled with variety and date.