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Butternut Squash
Cucurbita moschata
Dense, sweet flesh that improves in storage — the winter squash of choice.
Sun
Full sun
Water
Deep, weekly
Soil
Rich, well-drained, pH 6.0–7.0
Spacing
1.2 m apart
Days to harvest
100–120 days
Hardiness
Zones 3–10 (annual)
Seasonal Calendar
S
S
H
H
JFMAMJJASOND
Sow Harvest
The method
- 1
Start indoors
In short-summer climates, start 3–4 weeks before transplanting out.
- 2
Plant out warm
Wait until soil hits 18°C. Cold stunts them badly.
- 3
Train the vine
Guide vines along a fence or up a strong trellis to save space.
- 4
Harvest before frost
Skin should be tan and dull. Cure for 2 weeks in a warm spot to sweeten.
Common problems
Vine borer
Wrap the base of the stem in foil; inject Bt into affected stems.
Late fruit
Pinch tips in late summer to force fruit to ripen.
Good neighbors
CornBeanMarigold
Field tips
- “Store cured squash on a shelf, not touching — they'll keep 4–6 months.”
- “The tender vine tips are a delicious stir-fry green.”