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Want to grow butternut squash?
You’re in the right place!
These 8 simple tactics can help you grow big, tasty squash. From planting to harvest, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to get your hands dirty? Let’s go!
Pick the Right Location
Butternut squash loves the sun! Find a sunny spot in your garden where the plant can soak up at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
If you’re short on space, they can grow vertically too. Just make sure the area is well-drained to avoid soggy roots.
Prepare the Soil
Get down and dirty with your soil! Butternut squash prefers rich, loamy soil.
Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to boost fertility. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
Don’t stress too much about the specifics; a general garden soil mix should do the trick.
Sow the Seeds
Plant seeds directly into the soil when the weather warms up, usually in late spring. You can start them indoors a few weeks earlier if you want a head start.
Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and space them 18-24 inches apart. Keep rows around 3-4 feet apart to give them room to sprawl.
Water Regularly
Butternut squash is thirsty! Water the plants deeply once a week.
If the weather’s really hot, you might need to water more often. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
A good layer of mulch can help retain moisture and keep the weeds at bay.
Fertilize for Growth
Give your butternut squash a little boost with some fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilizer when the plants start to vine and again when they begin to flower.
Avoid too much nitrogen as it can lead to more leaves but fewer fruits.
Control Pests and Diseases
Watch out for squash bugs and powdery mildew. Spray neem oil if you notice pests, and maintain good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Pick off any infected leaves to keep the plant healthy.
Harvest Time
Your patience pays off when it’s time to harvest! Butternut squash is usually ready in early fall.
The skin should be hard and a deep tan color. Cut the squash off the vine with a sharp knife, leaving about an inch of the stem attached.
Store Properly
After harvesting, let the squash cure in the sun for a few days. Then store them in a cool, dry place.
Properly stored, butternut squash can last for several months, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your homegrown veggies!