Winter Squash Butternut Waltham Seeds for Planting - Grow Sweet and Nutty Butternut Squash

Here's a detailed growing guide for Waltham Butternut Squash seeds:

Key Attributes

Product Name: Waltham Butternut Squash Seeds
Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated
Available Quantities: 100, 500, or 1000 seeds per pack
Mature Size: 10-12 inches long, 3-6 pounds per fruit
Growth Habit: Vining (requires space or trellising)
Hardiness: Heat-tolerant, drought-resistant once established
Light Requirements: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter (pH 6.0–6.8)
Uses: Roasting, soups, purees, baking, and storage

Product Details

• Germination Rate: High for reliable growth
• Seed Freshness: Newly harvested for optimal viability
• Origin: Sustainably sourced
• Shelf Life: Best planted within one year for maximum germination

Planting Instructions

Seed Preparation

• No soaking required, but soaking for 12 hours may speed up germination.

Sowing Guidelines

Indoor Sowing:

• Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost.
• Use biodegradable pots to minimize transplant shock.
• Plant seeds 1 inch deep in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil.
• Maintain soil temperature at 70-85°F (21-29°C) for best germination.

Outdoor Sowing:

• Direct sow after the last frost when soil temperature is at least 65°F (18°C).
• Sow seeds 1 inch deep, spaced 3-4 feet apart in rows 4-6 feet apart.
• If using mounds, plant 3-5 seeds per mound and thin to the 2 strongest plants.

Germination

• Typically occurs within 7-14 days under optimal conditions.
• Keep soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging.

Transplanting

• If started indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors when they have 2-3 true leaves and after all danger of frost has passed.
• Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week.

Spacing & Growing Conditions

• Within Rows: 3-4 feet apart
• Between Rows: 4-6 feet apart
• Trellising: Can be grown on a sturdy trellis to save space, but fruits may need support.

Care & Maintenance

• Watering: Provide deep, consistent watering (1-2 inches per week), especially during flowering and fruit development. Avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress with compost or fertilizer every 3-4 weeks.
• Mulching: Use mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Pollination: Butternut squash requires pollination from bees. Hand pollinate if necessary.

Harvesting

• Harvest when the skin is hard and a deep tan color, typically 85-110 days after planting.
• The stem should be dry and brown. Cut the squash with 2-3 inches of stem attached to extend shelf life.
• Cure squash in a warm, dry place for 10-14 days before storage.
• Properly cured squash can last 3-6 months in a cool, dry place.

Pest & Disease Control

• Common Pests: Squash bugs, cucumber beetles, vine borers. Use row covers early in the season and apply neem oil if needed.
• Common Diseases: Powdery mildew and downy mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.