History
Table King Bush Acorn Squash is a classic American heirloom and one of the most beloved winter squash varieties ever developed for the home garden. An improved bush-type selection of the traditional acorn squash — itself a staple of Native American agriculture for centuries — Table King was developed to deliver all the rich, nutty flavor of classic acorn squash on a compact, space-saving bush plant rather than the sprawling vines of older varieties. Open-pollinated and non-GMO.
Plant Profile
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Days to Maturity: 80–85 days
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Fruit Size: 1–2 pounds, 5–6 inches long
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Fruit Color: Deep dark green with subtle ribbing; flesh is deep orange
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Plant Type: Open-pollinated, non-GMO heirloom; compact bush habit
Flavor Profile
Rich, mildly sweet, and nutty with a dense, smooth orange flesh that bakes to a buttery, creamy texture. The flavor deepens and sweetens after a few weeks of curing.
Growth Type & Harvest Yields
Compact bush plants spread 3–4 feet across and produce 4–5 squash per plant. Direct sow after frost danger passes for best results.
Disease Resistance
- Good tolerance to powdery mildew
- Susceptible to squash bugs and cucumber beetles — monitor regularly
- Tip: Use row covers at planting and remove when flowers appear
Growing Tips & Planting Dimensions
- Spacing: 24–36 inches between plants
- Sow depth: 1 inch deep, 2–3 seeds per hill; thin to strongest seedling
- Germination: 7–10 days at soil temps above 60°F
- Full sun — at least 8 hours daily
- Prefers rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture
When to Plant
Direct sow outdoors after frost danger has passed and soil temperature is above 60°F. Can start indoors 2–4 weeks before last frost in biodegradable pots. Find your frost dates at the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
Companion Plants & Mutual Benefits
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Corn & Beans — classic Three Sisters combination
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Nasturtiums — repel squash bugs and aphids
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Marigolds — deter cucumber beetles and squash bugs
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Avoid planting near: potatoes
How to Enjoy
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Roasted Halves: Fill with butter and brown sugar, roast at 400°F until tender
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Stuffed Squash: Fill with wild rice, sausage, and herbs
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Squash Soup: Roast, scoop, and blend with stock and cream
Why Gardeners Love Table King Bush Acorn Squash
- All-America Selections winner
- Compact bush habit — perfect for raised beds
- Perfect single-serving size
- Open-pollinated and non-GMO — save seeds year after year
Harvest Tips
- Harvest when skin is deep dark green and fully hardened
- Cut with 1–2 inches of stem attached
- Cure at room temperature for 1–2 weeks after harvest
- Store in a cool, dry location (50–55°F) for up to 2–3 months
Order Today
Add Table King Bush Acorn Squash Seeds to your garden this season. Choose your pack size and begin to grow.
