How to grow Winter Squash

Cucurbita moschata

Partial Sun
Medium

As with any squash variety, prevention of disease is the key to getting a good harvest. Squash are particularly susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungus which manifests itself as a white powdery-looking substance on the leaves. Left untreated, this can kill the entire plant.

Good methods for preventing powdery mildew are proper air circulation around the plant and providing cover via row covers during periods of excess rain. Keep the plants well spaced, and as an extra method of prevention, spray the leaves with a milk/water or baking soda/water/dish soap mixture. Baking soda and milk both have anti-fungal properties. Any leaves that are affected, trim off and burn.

Transplanting Winter squash

If sowing indoors and planting outdoors, be sure to harden off plants appropriately after all danger of frost has passed to ensure the plants aren’t shocked.

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Winter squash is a tender plant.

By our calculations*, you should look at planting out Winter squash about 10 days before your last frost date.

Harvesting Winter squash

Fruits store longer if the stem is left on the fruit during harvest. Store in a dry place that doesn’t freeze.

Seed Saving Winter squash

Scoop seeds into a container. Add water and ferment for a few days until (most) seeds sink. Rinse several times, throwing away any floating seeds. Spread the (sinking) seeds out to dry.

How long does Winter squash take to grow?

These estimates for how long Winter squash takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.

Days to Germination How long does it take Winter squash to germinate?: 8 days
Average 8 days | Min 2 days | Max 23 days (235)
Days to Transplant How long until I can plant out Winter squash?: + 25 days
Average 25 days | Min 2 days | Max 56 days (50)
Days to Maturity How long until Winter squash is ready for harvest / bloom?: + 96 days
Average 96 days | Min 73 days | Max 134 days (18)
Total Growing Days How long does it take to grow Winter squash?: = 129 days

When should I plant Winter squash?

Our when to plant Winter squash estimates are relative to your last frost date.

When to sow The number of days to sow Winter squash before or after your last frost date.: 10 days before Last Frost Date
When to plant out The number of days to plant out Winter squash before or after your last frost date.: 10 days before Last Frost Date

Other names for Winter squash

Butternut squash

Cucurbita moschata Duchesne