Cucurbita pepo Tuffy – popular acorn squash with excellent flavor

Cucurbita pepo Tuffy is a classic acorn squash that has been beloved for generations for its excellent flavor and robust qualities. This old-fashioned, pure variety distinguishes itself from the many modern hybrid varieties with its authentic flavor and reliable growth. Tuffy produces dark green, beautifully shaped acorn squash on short vines, with an average weight of approximately 900 grams.

Features of Tuffy Acorn Squash

The Tuffy pumpkin is attractive because of its compact shape and culinary versatility:

• Dark green, decorative acorn pumpkins

• Short-growing variety, easy to manage in the garden

• Fruit weight approx. 900 grams, perfect for individual portions

• Excellent flavour, which develops best about two weeks after harvest

These qualities make Tuffy ideal for home cooks who enjoy traditional flavors and for hobby gardeners who want to grow a reliable, tasty acorn squash.

Culinary applications – versatile and tasty

Tuffy is known for its excellent taste and is often used in the kitchen for various dishes:

• halved and roasted in the oven, as is customary in the US

• stuffed acorn pumpkins with savory or sweet fillings

• soups, stews and purees

• creative autumn dishes

The firm flesh and compact shape make Tuffy ideal for individual portions and culinary preparation.

Short tendrils – ideal for compact gardens

Tuffy forms short tendrils, making it suitable for limited space and easy to manage. This characteristic makes the variety attractive for:

• hobby gardens and allotments

• raised beds or compact vegetable garden plots

• beginning growers who want reliable yields

The short tendrils also ensure better air circulation around the leaves and healthy plants.

Maturation period of 90 days – early and reliable

With a ripening period of about 90 days, Tuffy is an early-maturing acorn squash. The fruits develop evenly and retain their firmness, flavor, and color for a long time, making them ideal for autumn harvesting.

Cultivation advice for optimal yield

Cucurbita pepo Tuffy grows best in warm, well-drained soil. For successful cultivation, the seeds can be planted in two ways:

• Sow from the end of April, plant out after the last frost

• Sow directly from early May, as soon as the soil temperature is sufficient

For optimal germination, a temperature of 24–30°C is ideal. The seeds should be placed pointed-side down or flat and kept slightly moist, but not wet. After germination, the young plants should be placed in a bright, cooler location to promote strong, healthy growth.

Planting distance and space requirements

A planting space of 1–2 m² per plant is recommended for Tuffy. This provides ample space for healthy leaves, good fruit development, and optimal air circulation, while the compact vines make the variety suitable for smaller gardens.