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.
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.
Fruits store longer if the stem is left on the fruit during harvest. Store in a dry place that doesn’t freeze.
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.
These estimates for how long Winter squash takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.
Average 8 days | Min 2 days | Max 23 days (235)
Average 25 days | Min 2 days | Max 56 days (50)
Average 96 days | Min 73 days | Max 134 days (18)
Our when to plant Winter squash estimates are relative to your last frost date.
Butternut squash
Cucurbita moschata Duchesne