How to Grow and Harvest 'Butterkin' Squash

Have you heard of the delightful ‘Butterkin’ squash? This winter squash hybrid is a delightful combination of a pumpkin and a butternut squash, offering a unique flavor that’s both sweet and nutty. With proper care and cultivation, you can enjoy your own homegrown ‘Butterkin’ squash straight from your garden.

Let’s dive into the world of ‘Butterkin’ squash and explore everything you need to know to plant, grow, and harvest this lovely vegetable.

Understanding ‘Butterkin’ Squash

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Developed by Hybrid Seeds in New Zealand and introduced to the US market in 2014, ‘Butterkin’ squash is a blend of the charming pumpkin and the familiar butternut squash. This winter squash variety produces two to four-pound fruits with a vibrant orange, sweet flesh enclosed in a tan-colored exterior.

Growing on four to six-foot vines and featuring rough-textured leaves with five to seven lobes, ‘Butterkin’ squash is an annual plant suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 10. These squash typically mature in about 105 days and offer a visually appealing addition to your garden.

Planting ‘Butterkin’ Squash

Sowing Seeds

When it comes to planting ‘Butterkin’ squash, you have the option to sow seeds directly into your garden or start them indoors for later transplanting. Ensure that the soil temperature is above 65°F before planting the seeds.

From Seed

Prepare mounds in your garden that are 12 inches in diameter and six to eight inches tall.
Space the mounds six to 12 inches apart and plant one seed per mound about an inch deep.
Keep the soil moist, and seedlings should emerge in seven to 14 days.

Alternatively, you can start seeds indoors using seed starting trays filled with a peat moss and perlite blend. Once the seedlings reach two to four inches in height, you can begin the process of acclimating them to the outdoor environment before transplanting them into the garden.

Transplanting

If you opt to begin with transplants, carefully transfer the seedlings to the prepared mounds in your garden, ensuring that the roots are well-covered with soil. Water the transplants thoroughly after planting to help them establish in their new environment.

Growing ‘Butterkin’ Squash

To thrive, ‘Butterkin’ squash plants require full sun exposure (about six to eight hours per day) and warm temperatures. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 6.0 and 7.5.

Fertilize regularly with a balanced 10-10-10 (NPK) product until a month before harvest.
Water the plants regularly, making sure to avoid wetting the leaves directly to prevent fungal diseases.
Apply organic mulch to retain soil moisture and inhibit weed growth around the plants.

Maintenance and Growing Tips

Prune the vines if desired to encourage fruiting.
Protect the plants from wilting in extreme heat and ensure adequate watering during dry weather.
Monitor for pests such as squash bugs and aphids, and take appropriate measures to manage infestations.

Harvesting and Storage

When the ‘Butterkin’ squash fruits are fully mature, typically in late September or early October, they will exhibit a light tan or orange color. Harvest the fruits by cutting the stem about one inch away from the fruit using gardening scissors.

Before storing ‘Butterkin’ squash, it’s essential to cure the fruit by placing them in a dry location with temperatures between 70 and 80°F for seven to 10 days. Store the squash in a dark, cool area between 50 and 60°F, checking regularly for rot or decay.

You can also freeze the harvested squash by peeling and cutting the flesh into cubes and freezing them on a cookie sheet before transferring them to containers or zip-top bags.

Recipes and Cooking Ideas

‘Butterkin’ squash is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in various ways, from roasting to making soups and stews. Substitute ‘Butterkin’ squash for pumpkin or butternut squash in your favorite recipes for a unique twist.

For more cooking inspiration, explore our collection of squash recipes on our sister site, Foodal.

In Conclusion

Growing ‘Butterkin’ squash in your garden can be a rewarding experience, offering you a flavorful and visually appealing addition to your harvest. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, this winter squash variety is a wonderful choice for cultivating at home.

Have you tried growing ‘Butterkin’ squash in your garden? Share your experiences and favorite recipes in the comments section below!

For more information on growing winter squash and other gardening tips, be sure to explore our additional guides:

How to Save Pumpkin Seeds from Your Garden to Roast and Eat
11 of the Best Winter Squash Varieties
How to Plant and Grow Spaghetti Squash

By following these guidelines, you can cultivate a thriving ‘Butterkin’ squash crop in your garden. Enjoy the process of nurturing these delightful fruits and savor the delicious flavors they bring to your table. Happy gardening!