14 Sep - Butternut Squash Results

A few years ago I planted a few butternut squashes, if I recall correctly they were an unnamed variety labelled under the Wilko seed brand. I even managed to get a few squashes from a couple of plants that survived my ham-fisted growing attempts. The upshot was that the family really enjoyed them so I've grown a few for the past couple of seasons.

Over the Winter I did a bit of research and downloaded the RHS plant trial they conducted on butternuts (link at the bottom of the article) and thought I'd try 'Hunter F1' because the variety tested very well and was bred to ripen in the UK's short summer. (Below - butternuts first planted out).

I sowed the butternuts on the 15th April in a heated propagator then moved them into an unheated greenhouse when established. They were potted on into larger pots when required and ten were planted outside on the allotment in the space vacated by my early potatoes - this was on the 12th June just as the weather was warming up nicely. (Below - first fruits).

I also planted bottomless, up-turned plastic bottles next to each plant to act as a funnel for watering and feeding. Once the squash are established it can be difficult to see where the plants are anchored into the ground so the bottles get water and liquid feed direct to the roots. I used a basic, home-brand high potash liquid tomato feed once a week when the fruits were beginning to form. I hand pollinated at every opportunity to ensure fruit set on all the vines. (Below - early September and the usual powdery mildew has set in).

I harvested them on 13th September when powdery mildew had all but finished off the plants - I could have left them a week or two longer but as there wasn't going to be any further growth I decided to take them up. While I didn't get the prolific quantity the RHS got in their trial I certainly got enough squash to last a few months! I haven't counted how many butternuts I have but there is a plastic crate full plus a full hessian sack - a fantastic crop. (Below - a crate and sack full of butternut squash).

I'm delighted with the Hunter F1 butternut - the sizes vary a little but most are a good size and they taste absolutely delicious. We use loads of squashes roasted as part of a cooked Sunday lunch where they compliment the other vegetables so well. The Hunter F1 AGM are a good choice and are available from a number of seed suppliers. (Below - a decent squash harvest minus the load we've already eaten and given away - there's a pumpkin to come too).

Link to the RHS Butternut Squash trial: RHS Butternut Trial