How to Grow Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a rewarding crop that produces delicious, nutrient-rich fruits in the autumn. With its sweet orange flesh and thin skin, it’s perfect for roasting, soups, and risottos. Low in carbohydrates and packed with vitamins, this versatile vegetable is an excellent addition to any garden.
Table of Contents
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sow | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |||||||||
| Plant | ✅ | ✅ | ||||||||||
| Harvest | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Growing Butternut Squash: Step-by-Step Guide
Sowing Butternut Squash Seeds
- Indoors (April): Sow seeds in 7cm pots filled with peat-free, multi-purpose compost. Plant two seeds per pot, then thin to the strongest seedling. Transplant to larger pots as needed.
- Outdoors (Late May – Early June): Once the risk of frost has passed, plant seedlings in well-prepared, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Seeds can also be sown directly in the ground at this time.
- Spacing: Allow ample space for growth—around 90cm apart in all directions.
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Caring for Butternut Squash Plants
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging.
- Feeding: Start weekly feeding with a high-potassium liquid fertilizer once flowering begins. Pelleted chicken manure is also a good option.
- Protecting Plants: Shield young plants from slugs, snails, and aphids. Use companion planting or organic deterrents.
- Encouraging Ripening: Remove leaves shading developing fruits to ensure they mature properly. Lift squashes onto bricks or straw to prevent rot and encourage ripening.
Harvesting Butternut Squash
- Fruits are typically ready around 15 weeks after sowing.
- Leave squashes on the vine as long as possible but harvest before the first frost for optimal storage.
Common Growing Challenges & Solutions
- Pests: Slugs, snails, and aphids can damage young plants—use organic deterrents.
- Diseases: Powdery mildew and cucumber mosaic virus may appear later in the season. Ensure good air circulation and choose disease-resistant varieties.
- Watering Issues: Inconsistent watering can lead to poor fruit development—maintain regular moisture levels.
Storage & Uses
- Store harvested butternut squash in a cool, dry place. Most varieties will keep for up to three months.
- Peel before cooking, or roast with the skin on for added texture and flavor.
Best Butternut Squash Varieties to Grow
- ‘Winter Hercules’ – Produces large, 1.2kg fruits on a compact plant; excellent storage capability.
- ‘Winter Hunter’ – Adapted for UK growing; large, 1kg fruits with strong disease resistance.
- ‘Waldo’ – High-yielding variety with great flavor and good resistance to powdery mildew.
- ‘Butterscotch’ – Mini squashes (500g-1kg) with high sugar content, early ripening, and long storage potential.
- ‘Barbara’ – Green-striped variety with deep orange flesh, maturing from August to October.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does butternut squash take to grow?
Around 15 weeks from sowing to harvest.
Does butternut squash need full sun?
Yes, it thrives in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil.
Can I grow butternut squash in containers?
Yes, but choose a large container (at least 50L) and provide support for trailing vines.
What’s the best way to store butternut squash?
Keep in a cool, dry place—most varieties store well for up to three months.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, flavorful butternut squash straight from your garden.
