# Rampicante

Source: https://shop.homegrowngardenschicago.com/product/rampicante/
Published: 2024-03-07
Updated: 2026-03-25

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## **RAMPICANTE SQUASH (*Cucurbita moschata*)**

**Transplant | Late May | Annual | Summer & Winter Squash**

A legendary Italian heirloom with a vigorous vining habit and incredible versatility. Rampicante is truly a two-in-one squash—harvest young while light green for a tender, mild summer squash, or allow it to mature into long, curved orange fruits with rich, butternut-like flavor perfect for winter storage.

### Growing Details

- Harvest: ~70 days (young summer squash)
- Plant spacing: 2′
- Full sun
- Not frost hardy
- Requires a large, sturdy trellis for best growth

### Garden Companionship

*Best planted with:* Beans, corn, radishes, nasturtiums\
*Benefits:* Companion plants help deter pests, attract pollinators, and support healthy squash production\
*Avoid planting near:* Potatoes, which may compete for nutrients

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### Pro Growing Tips

- Train vines onto a strong trellis to save space and support long, straight fruit
- Harvest young (12–18″) for tender summer squash or allow to mature up to 3′ for winter storage
- Mature fruits store well and develop a rich, sweet flavor similar to butternut squash

### Health Highlights

- **Nutrient-rich:** Contains vitamins A and C, especially when fully mature
- **Dual-purpose crop:** Enjoy fresh in summer or store for winter use
- **Versatile:** Excellent for roasting, soups, grilling, and long-term storage

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*Pre-order now for vigorous, garden-ready plants timed perfectly for warm-season planting.*