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Vegetable

Winter Squash

Cucurbita spp.

Winter squash encompasses a diverse group of hard-skinned squashes, including butternut, acorn, spaghetti, and kabocha. They are known for their long storage life and versatility in the kitchen, used in soups, stews, roasts, and even desserts. Winter squash prefers full sun, fertile soil, and ample space to grow.

Winter Squash

Quick Information

Height
45cm
Sun
Full Sun
Water
Moderate Water

Planting Calendar

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Growing Guide for

1
Sow seeds indoors

15 Mar 2025 - 24 Mar 2025

Sow seeds 2.5cm deep in pots filled with seed starting mix 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost.

Use a warm, sunny location for seed starting.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

2
Harden off seedlings

31 Mar 2025 - 07 Apr 2025

Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions 1-2 weeks before transplanting.

Start with a few hours of outdoor exposure each day, gradually increasing the time.
Protect seedlings from strong winds and direct sunlight initially.

3
Plant out seedlings

14 Apr 2025 - 14 Apr 2025

Transplant seedlings into well-prepared soil after the last frost, spacing them according to variety recommendations.

Choose a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil.
Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

4
Water regularly

21 Apr 2025 - Ongoing

Provide consistent watering, especially during dry periods. Water deeply at the base of the plants.

Mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture.
Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

5
Fertilize

05 May 2025 - Ongoing

Feed plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to support growth and fruit development.

Use a fertilizer with a slightly higher potassium content.
Apply fertilizer according to package instructions.

6
Monitor for pests and diseases

05 May 2025 - Ongoing

Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests or diseases. Take appropriate measures for control.

Common pests include squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and aphids.
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease.

7
Harvest

13 Jun 2025 - Ongoing

Harvest winter squash when the skin is hard and the stem begins to dry and crack. Cut the squash with a short stalk attached.

Leave squash to ripen fully on the vine for best flavor and storage.
Handle squash carefully to avoid bruising.

8
Cure

13 Jun 2025 - 27 Jun 2025

Cure squash in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area for 10-14 days to harden the skin and improve storage life.

Place squash in a single layer, avoiding direct sunlight.
Turn squash occasionally to ensure even curing.

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