Early Yellow Crookneck Squash
Curcurbita pepo
Approximately 20 seeds per pack.
Germination: 95% Oct 2024 Packed for 2025
Origins and History
Early Yellow Crookneck Squash is a classic American heirloom variety with roots tracing back to the 18th century. Indigenous peoples of North America cultivated summer squashes in many forms, and by the colonial period, crookneck types were being widely grown and selectively maintained. Early Yellow Crookneck became a staple in New England and the Mid-Atlantic by the 1700s and 1800s, prized for its early maturity and high productivity. Its continued popularity reflects both its culinary versatility and the heritage value of a variety that has been handed down for generations.
Appearance and Characteristics
This squash is easily recognized by its bright yellow skin and distinctive curved neck. The fruits are small to medium-sized, usually 4–6 inches long when harvested at their most tender. The skin may be smooth or slightly bumpy depending on the strain, while the flesh is creamy-white with a tender, mild flavor. The plants are bush-type, rather than vining, making them well-suited to smaller gardens. One of its most notable traits is earliness, as it is among the first summer squashes to mature in the garden.
Culinary Uses
Early Yellow Crookneck Squash is a versatile kitchen staple. Its tender flesh cooks quickly and is excellent sautéed, steamed, or stir-fried. The squash is a Southern favorite when sliced, breaded, and pan-fried, and it also performs well in casseroles, soups, and stews. Young, small fruits are especially prized for their delicate texture and flavor, while slightly larger ones can be stuffed or baked. Its mild sweetness complements herbs such as basil, thyme, and parsley.
Growing Tips
This heirloom thrives in warm weather and full sun, requiring rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Direct sowing is best once soil temperatures have warmed to at least 65°F, as squash does not tolerate frost. Seeds should be sown 1 inch deep, either in hills of 3–4 seeds spaced 2–3 feet apart or in rows with 18–24 inches between plants. Early Yellow Crookneck grows best in USDA Zones 3–10, but gardeners in cooler climates should consider starting seeds indoors for a head start. Regular harvesting encourages continued production.
Harvesting Guidance
Fruits are best picked when 4–6 inches long, while the skin is still tender and glossy. If left to mature too long, the squash becomes seedy and tough-skinned, diminishing its culinary quality. Frequent harvesting—every 2–3 days at peak season—not only ensures tender fruit but also stimulates the plant to keep producing. Handle gently to avoid bruising, and store freshly harvested squash in the refrigerator for up to a week. For seed saving, allow a few fruits to fully mature on the plant until the skin hardens, then harvest and cure before extracting the seeds.
