Waltham Butternut Winter Squash is a popular variety of winter squash known for its sweet, nutty flavor and versatile culinary uses. This heirloom variety, which originated in Waltham, Massachusetts, is particularly prized for its creamy texture and rich taste, making it a favorite among home gardeners and professional chefs alike. Its elongated, bell like shape and smooth, tan skin distinguish it from other types of squash, while its deep orange flesh is packed with delicious nutrition.
Growing Waltham Butternut Winter Squash is relatively straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. The plants thrive in warm, sunny locations with well-drained soil and require ample space to sprawl. They are typically planted in late spring, after the danger of frost has passed, and take about 85-100 days to mature. Regular watering and occasional fertilization will help ensure a bountiful harvest. Once the squash turns a deep tan color and the skin hardens, it is ready to be harvested and can be stored in a cool, dry place for several months, providing a nutritious food source throughout the winter.
In the kitchen, Waltham Butternut Winter Squash is incredibly versatile. It can be roasted, pureed, baked, or steamed, and is commonly used in soups, stews, casseroles, and even desserts. Its natural sweetness pairs well with a variety of flavors, including sage, cinnamon, and nutmeg. For a simple and delicious dish, try roasting cubes of butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until caramelized and tender. This humble yet flavorful squash is a true staple for any pantry, offering both nutritional benefits and culinary delight. (C. moschata)
- QTY. 25
- Seed Planting Depth: 1 to 1.5"
- Germination Temperature: 70-85
- Days to Germination: 3-10
- 100' yield: 100 lbs
- Row Spacing: 48"
- Plant Spacing: 24"-36"
- Sun: Full
How to Save Seeds
Pumpkins are actually from the squash family. So they will cross will different types of squash. There are 4 groups of commonly grown varieties of squash. Cucurbita pepo, Cucurbita Maxima, Cucurbita moschata, Cucurbita mixta. With this in mind any variety from the same species or in other terms with the same last name of the 4 species listed above will cross and must be separated 500ft. For instance you can't grow two pepo varieties together or they will cross. Side note: Be sure to check what type of squash you have in order to determine cross pollination chances. Squash and pumpkins can be seed harvested the same way. Let them stay on the vine until fall and then cut off the vine let sit for a week and then cut them open scoop out flesh and place in water. Wash seeds and place them on a screen rack for drying or paper. Turn often so they are able to fully dry a week or so and then properly them store accordingly.