5 seeds
 
Spaghetti squash, or Cucurbita pepo, is native to Mexico and Central America and is a variety of winter squash.  The pulp and flesh look like spaghetti noodles, which is what inspired the name.  Spaghetti squash is easy to grow and provides a wealth of essential nutrients, such as vitamins A and C.  Once the danger of frost has passed, you can safely sow the seeds or plants and harvest in a few short months.
 
Types
Spaghetti squash varieties can have an exterior that ranges in colour from tan to yellow to orange.
The 'Vegetable' type is the most traditional and bears squash that are light tan to pale yellow in colour.
'Hasta la Pasta' is vivid orange and is sweeter than other varieties.
'Orangetti' is the original orange variety of spaghetti squash.
'Tivoli' is a smaller variety and yields fruit that tastes similar to a sweet potato.
 
Planting
Spaghetti squash grows best in full sun and in soil that contains organic matter, such as compost.  Wait until the danger frost has passed.  Start seedlings indoors and transplant them outside.  Dig a hole slightly larger than the root of the plant.  Carefully arrange the plant in the hole and fill in with soil.  Alternatively, sow seeds outside, 2.5cm deep, leaving about 30cm of space between each seed. Water the plants or seeds immediately after planting.
 
Tending
Once the squash have begun to grow, thin them so there is about 1 to 1.5 metres between each one.  This will encourage the plants to bear more fruit.  It might also encourage the squash to grow larger.  Pull weeds from around the plants regularly and water regularly, particularly when the weather is hot and dry.  Watch for mites, which are common garden pests that attack squash.  Use an insecticide approved for  mites to help prevent them from damaging your crop.
 
Harvesting
Spaghetti squash is ready to harvest in late summer or early fall, depending on when you planted it outdoors.  You will know your squash is ready to pick when the stem starts to crack.  The rinds will also harden and increase in colour.  Cut the fruit from the vine using a sharp pair of gardening shears.  Store it in a cool, dry place and in a single layer. This helps prevent the squash from rotting.
 
5 x seeds