Grown Pattypan Squash (Sunburst)?

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Pattypan Squash (Sunburst) — Squash

50-60days to harvest

7-10days to germinate

Z3–11USDA zones

Easydifficulty

F1 hybridContainer friendly

Sowing

Direct sow after soil reaches 65°F and danger of frost has passed. Can start indoors 2-3 weeks early.

Cultivation

Sun: Full sun (6+ hours)
Water: 1-2 inches per week, consistent moisture
Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil with organic matter
Soil pH: 6.0-7.5
Spacing: 36 inches
Height: 1-3 feet
Season: Warm season

Appearance & flavour

Colour: Bright golden yellow with light green blossom end
Size: 3-4 inches across when harvested young
Shape: Flat, round disc with scalloped edges (pattypan/UFO shape)
Flavour: Mild, sweet, and buttery with tender texture

In the kitchen

Stuffing, grilling, steaming, sautéing, raw in salads when very small, decorative garnish

Pests, disease & resistance

Pests: Squash bugs, cucumber beetles, aphids
Diseases: Bacterial wilt, squash mosaic virus, downy mildew
Resistance: Good resistance to powdery mildew and some viruses

Planting calendar by USDA zone

Zone	Start indoors	Transplant	Direct sow	Harvest
1	—	—	July – August	September – August
2	—	—	June – August	September
3	—	—	June – July	August – October
4	—	—	June – July	August – October
5	—	—	May – June	August – September
6	—	—	May – June	July – September
7	—	—	April – June	July – August
8	—	—	April – May	June – August
9	—	—	March – April	May – July
10	—	—	February – April	May – June
11	—	—	January – March	April – May
12	—	—	January – March	April – May
13	—	—	January – March	April – May

Companion planting

8 beneficial pairings indexed for this variety, 3 to avoid.

NasturtiumsRepels squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and aphids while attracting beneficial predatory insects

MarigoldsDeters squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and nematodes with their strong scent

RadishesRepels squash vine borers and cucumber beetles, quick harvest before squash spreads

CornProvides vertical structure and shade, part of traditional Three Sisters planting

BeansFixes nitrogen in soil to benefit heavy-feeding squash, completes Three Sisters guild

CatnipStrongly repels squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and other common squash pests

DillAttracts beneficial insects like parasitic wasps that prey on squash pest larvae

SunflowersProvides shade and wind protection, attracts pollinators essential for squash fruit production

Avoid

PotatoesCompete for similar soil nutrients and space, both are heavy feeders that deplete soil

FennelReleases allelopathic compounds that inhibit squash growth and development

Aromatic herbs (Sage)Strong oils can inhibit squash growth and may interfere with pollinator attraction

Nutrition (per 100 g)

Calories (per 100 g): 26
Protein (g): 0.52
Fat (g): 0.2
Carbohydrate (g): 5.64
Sugars (g): 3.54
Vitamin C (mg): 4.5
Vitamin E (mg): 0
Vitamin B6 (mg): 0.058
Folate (µg): 22
Calcium (mg): 9
Iron (mg): 0.17
Magnesium (mg): 10
Phosphorus (mg): 12
Potassium (mg): 205
Zinc (mg): 0.07

← PreviousHubbard Blue Squash Next →Honeynut Squash

Where to buy seed and equipment

Some links are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Growing it? There is a full cultivation guide at the squash growing guide.

Cultivar facts compiled from public horticultural references including USDA GRIN and NC State Extension. Descriptions are original to this catalogue.

Sowing

Cultivation

Appearance & flavour

In the kitchen

Pests, disease & resistance

Planting calendar by USDA zone

Companion planting

Avoid

Nutrition (per 100 g)

Where to buy seed and equipment

Grown Pattypan Squash (Sunburst)?

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