Organic 'Turk's Turban' Squash

Organic 'Turk's Turban' squash (Cucurbita maxima) from the seed company Gaia, a spectacular and decorative heirloom squash

The 'Turk's Turban' squash is a fascinating heirloom variety, instantly recognizable thanks to its wavy, acorn-like shape , reminiscent of a traditional turban. Its thick, firm, and highly decorative fruits display a mosaic of stripes, spots, and marbling , ranging from vibrant orange to cream, green, and reddish hues. At maturity, this winter squash sometimes develops an internal cavity , making it ideal both as a culinary vegetable and as an autumn ornamental. Its tough skin ensures good storage, while its flesh is flavorful and rich.

Companion plants : Corn, Climbing beans, Peas, Radishes, Sunflowers, Parsley, Celery, Buckwheat, Nasturtiums, Marigolds, Oregano
Nefarious plants : Tomato, Eggplant, Potato, Pepper

Spread/Habit : Vigorous trailing plant
Plant height : 30 to 60 cm (creeping vines)
Quantity per packet : 10 seeds
Certification : Environmentally friendly product
Special features : Highly decorative, thick and resistant skin, unique tassel/turban shape, good preservation

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Soft, slightly sweet flesh
Cold tolerance : Not tolerant

Resistant to deer (undocumented → leave blank)

Farming method

Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for a maximum of 24 hours , then scarify to improve germination.
Start sowing 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost . Transplant outdoors in late May–early June, when the soil reaches 25°C .
Sow at a depth of 2.5 cm (1″) .
Spacing: 38–45 cm between plants, 60–90 cm between rows.

Install in full sun (level 3) with moderate watering (level 2).
Germination in 7 to 10 days between 27 and 35 °C .

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest when the squash has a rich color , a very hard skin that resists nailing, and the soil stain changes from creamy yellow to orange.
Leave 2″ of stem to reduce the risk of rot.
Allow to ripen in a dry, warm place before storing.
Store at 10–12 °C , with 55–75% humidity and good ventilation.

Usage ideas

• As an autumn decoration thanks to its unique shape and colors
• In roasted dishes , where its flesh reveals a mild flavor
• In winter cream soups
• In stuffings, gratins or purées
• Hollowed-out gourd as a decorative edible bowl

The ' Turk's Turban ' squash is a spectacular, robust and heritage variety, ideal for gardeners wishing to combine aesthetics and utility in the vegetable garden.