Spaghetti squash, or Cucurbita pepo, is native to Mexico and Central America and is a variety of winter squash. The pulp and flesh of a spaghetti squash 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 spaghetti squash seeds or plants and harvest in a few short months.TypesSpaghetti squash varieties can have an exterior that ranges in colour from tan to yellow to orange. The 'Vegetable' spaghetti type is the most traditional and bears squash that are light tan to pale yellow in colour. 'Hasta la Pasta' is a vivid orange spaghetti squash and is sweeter than other varieties. 'Orangetti' is the original orange variety of spaghetti squash and 'Tivoli' is a smaller variety and yields fruit that tastes similar to a sweet potato.PlantingSpaghetti squash grows best in full sun and in soil that contains organic matter, such as compost. Wait until the danger frost has passed, which is around mid-March to mid-April in northern areas along the West coast, such as San Francisco. Start spaghetti squash 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 spaghetti squash seeds outside, 1 inch deep, leaving about 12 inches of space between each seed. Water the plants or seeds immediately after planting.TendingOnce the squash have begun to grow, thin them so there is about three to five feet 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 spaghetti squash plants regularly. Weeds can rob your spaghetti squash plants of the water and nutrients they need to thrive. Water spaghetti squash plants regularly, particularly when the weather is hot and dry. Watch for red spider mites, which are common garden pests that attack squash. Use an insecticide approved for red spider mites to help prevent them from damaging your crop.HarvestingSpaghetti 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 spaghetti squash from the vine using a sharp pair of gardening shears. Store the squash in a cool, dry place and in a single layer. This helps prevent the squash from rotting.5 x seeds