Grow Patty Pan Squash: Tips for a Bountiful Harvest in 2025

If you’re looking for a unique and versatile addition to your garden, patty pan squash is a fantastic choice. With its whimsical, saucer-like shape and delicate flavor, this summer squash is perfect for grilling, roasting, or stuffing. Plus, it’s easy to grow and care for, making it a great option for both beginner and experienced gardeners. At Sow Haven, we guide you through every step of growing patty pan squash, from planting to harvest. This is the best blog post for how to grow patty pan squash in your home garden.

Why Grow Patty Pan Squash?

Patty pan squash is a family favorite for many reasons:

• Unique Appearance: Its scalloped edges and round shape make it a standout in the garden and on the dinner table.
• Versatility: Use it in a variety of dishes, from grilled sides to stuffed mains.
• Quick Growth: Patty pan squash matures quickly, often ready to harvest in just 50-60 days.
• Compact Size: It’s perfect for small gardens or container growing.

Popular Patty Pan Squash Varieties

There are several varieties of patty pan squash to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and appearance. Here are a few favorites:

1. Sunburst: Bright yellow with scalloped edges, this variety has a tender, nutty flavor and matures in about 55 days.
2. Peter Pan: A green, scalloped-edge squash that’s an All-America Selections winner. It’s ready to harvest in just 50 days.
3. Gelber Englisher Custard: Known for its lemon-yellow color and excellent flavor, this variety takes about 60 days to mature.

When to Plant Patty Pan Squash

Timing is key when planting patty pan squash. Here’s what you need to know:

• In Warm Climates (like Arizona): Plant after the last frost (typically mid-February) through March, and again from mid-August to September.
• In Other Areas: Wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F (15.5°C) and all danger of frost has passed.

How to Plant Patty Pan Squash

Follow these steps to ensure your patty pan squash thrives:

1. Prepare the Soil: Amend your garden bed with compost to enrich the soil and improve drainage.
2. Sow Seeds: Plant seeds 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep, spacing them 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) apart. Patty pan squash seeds are large and easy to handle, making them ideal for direct sowing.
3. Container Growing: If you’re short on space, patty pan squash grows well in containers. Choose a pot that’s at least 18 inches (45 cm) wide and deep, and use well-draining soil.
4. Sunlight Needs: Plant in a sunny spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to protect the plants from scorching temperatures.

Caring for Patty Pan Squash

Proper care ensures healthy plants and a bountiful harvest:

1. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist by watering deeply. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
2. Pest Control: Watch out for common pests like squash bugs. Check the undersides of leaves daily for eggs and remove them promptly.
3. Disease Prevention: Powdery mildew can be an issue. Remove infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plants.

Harvesting and Using Patty Pan Squash

The best time to harvest patty pan squash is when they’re small, tender, and firm—about 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in diameter. Here’s how to make the most of your harvest:

• Storage: Store harvested squash in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Cooking Tips: Young patty pan squash doesn’t need to be peeled. Grill, roast, or sauté it for a delicious side dish. For larger squash, scoop out the seeds and stuff them with your favorite fillings.

Growing patty pan squash is a rewarding experience that adds beauty and flavor to your garden. With its quick growth and easy care, it’s a great choice for gardeners of all levels. At Sow Haven, we’re passionate about helping you grow your best garden yet. So why not give patty pan squash a try this season? Happy gardening!