Winter Squash, Canada Crookneck (Organic)
Cucurbita moschata. 90 days.
Another great butternut-type squash that matures in our climate! Canada Crookneck is a bottle shaped “neck squash” that the present-day butternut type was selected from. Very productive and holds well in storage when properly cured. Average size is 3 ½ lbs, though a few reach 6 lbs. Not all necks are curved. Unique shape takes a bit of getting used to but after testing it in the kitchen, we’ve come to prefer it. The bulbous end is easily cut into two perfectly sized bowls that are a fun and delicious way to serve stuffed squash. Size and shape of the neck make it easy to peel (skin does soften enough when cooked to skip this step), quarter lengthwise, and slice into bite-sized chunks. Reported to resist squash vine borers. First offered commercially in 1834 though it’s said to have originated with the Iroquois Nations. Canada Crookneck is included in the Slow Food Ark of Taste.
| Geographical Origin |
|---|
Sow indoors in 2-4” pots with good potting soil May through mid-June. Transplant into the garden 1-2 weeks after sprouting to 2-3’ centers and 6′ wide rows. May also be direct sown when soil is warm. Young plants are sensitive, we recommend row cover to protect from frost and insects.
Seed Saving
To save seed, scoop out seeds when you eat the fruit. Rinse off and dry. Isolate from other squash of the same species by at least ½ mile.
Paula D. –
Where did you grow this variety? Canada
I can’t speak too highly of this squash. In my cold short season (99 day) location in central Alberta, squashes don’t always ripen well though started from transplants. I have picked this in mid September with the skin still greenish, cured it at room temperature while it slowly ripened to tan, and it still tastes great and keeps well. And it’s fun and easy to process!
Upvote if this was helpful (1) Downvote if this was not helpful (0) Watch Unwatch Flag for removal
Crystal (verified owner) –
Where did you grow this variety? Washington
Weird year of scorching Sumner interspersed with a week of rain, and I swear the season was over a hair after it started though I know that’s not the case.
Anyway, these guys grew like a champion in less than ideal conditions. They were in a container among lower salmon river, 2sunflowers, 3 new trees, red buckwheat volunteers, several stalks of corn and and a few delicatra, all crammed into the same area.
I’m not sure yet how many I have, but I’ve counted 5 before pulling any vines!
Upvote if this was helpful (0) Downvote if this was not helpful (0) Watch Unwatch Flag for removal