From Bloom to Bite: A Beginner's Guide to Squash Blossoms
- Allie Correa
- Jul 16
- 2 min read
The Secret Stars of the Summer Garden
At Arrows Farm, we believe in celebrating every part of the plant—from root to bloom. One of our favorite edible treasures? Squash flowers.
These golden, trumpet-shaped blossoms often get overshadowed by the fruit they precede, but squash blossoms are a seasonal delicacy that can elevate your summer meals and give your garden an extra layer of charm.
Planting for Blossoms: When and How
Squash flowers come from both summer and winter squash varieties: zucchini, yellow squash, pumpkin, and more. They thrive in North Georgia's warm growing season, and here’s how to encourage blooms:
1. Choose the Right Spot
Full Sun: Squash plants love the sun. Choose a location that gets 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.
Rich Soil: Amend your soil with compost or well-rotted manure to nourish both plant and flower.
2. Plant from Seed or Start
Timing: Plant seeds after the last frost (around mid-April in Zone 7).
Spacing: Give them room to sprawl. Squash vines can take over a bed quickly!
3. Water Deeply and Regularly
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulching can help retain moisture and prevent disease.
4. Male vs. Female Flowers
Male flowers appear first and are on long thin stems.
Female flowers have a tiny fruit (the ovary) at their base.
You can harvest either, but be mindful not to harvest too many female blooms if you want fruit to grow!
Harvesting Tips
Best Time: Morning, just after they open. Use scissors or snip them gently to avoid damaging the plant.
Storage: Use within 24 hours for best flavor and texture, or store in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel.
Cooking with Squash Blossoms
Squash flowers are delicate and subtly sweet. Here are some simple ways to enjoy them:
1. Stuffed and Pan-Fried
Mix ricotta, herbs, and lemon zest, and gently fill each blossom.
Dip in a light batter and pan-fry until golden.
2. Chopped in Quesadillas or Omelets
Add chopped blossoms to a cheesy quesadilla or a fluffy omelet for a floral twist.
3. On Pizza or Flatbread
Layer blossoms with goat cheese and summer veggies on your next pizza night.
A Brief History
Squash blossoms have been used in Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. Known as "flor de calabaza" in Mexico, they often show up in soups, quesadillas, or sauteed as a side dish. Italians commonly stuff them with ricotta and herbs. They are more than just garnish—they’re a part of culinary heritage.
Nutritional Benefits
While not packed with calories or heavy nutrients, squash blossoms do contain:
Vitamin C
Calcium
Iron
Antioxidants
They’re a nutritious, low-calorie addition to seasonal dishes.
Grow, Harvest, and Enjoy
Next time you see a squash plant blooming, don’t overlook the flowers. Whether you're growing them intentionally or harvesting from your veggie patch, squash blossoms are one of summer's most fleeting pleasures.
If you pick up a veggie box from Arrows Farm this season, you just might find a few tucked in as a surprise treat.
Ready to taste the season?
Sign up for a prorated veggie box at thearrowsfarm.com/veggiebox and explore new recipes, local flavor, and a fresh way to eat well.
Comments