Winter Squash, Butternut Early Remix (Organic)
Cucurbita moschata. 90 days.
As market growers, we knew that winter squash storability and flavor improve with ripeness, so we were always on the lookout for an early butternut variety that matured well here in Oregon. Some hybrids come close, but most OPs require a longer growing season than we can provide. In 2005, we started growing every early butternut variety we could find, including Nutterbutter, Hunter F1, Butterbush, Early Butternut F1, Butterfly F1, and more. We allowed them to cross freely and have been selecting for early ripening and 2-4 lb fruit with a classic butternut shape. There is the occasional 6+ lb fruit depending on growing conditions. Because there were so many parents in this genepool, expect some variation, all within a classic butternut theme. Why should every butternut be identical anyway?
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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.
Cindy Samco (verified owner) –
Where did you grow this variety? Washington
This squash did really well even though I planted in late June. I was lucky with an extended season in SW Washington.
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Marcus E Smith –
Where did you grow this variety? Southeastern US
I guess you guys wondered why someone in SC wanted an early Butternut. Well, we have a pest here called pickleworm that shows up in mid July. It bores into the fruit and causes it to rot. Bt will prevent them, but you have to reapply frequently to stay on top of the worms.
So far, about 15 variable fruits from two plants, so production is good. I will eat one next week, if the taste is there, I wiil definitely reorder!
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Em (verified owner) –
Where did you grow this variety? Oregon
Good germination, but through my own inattention lost a few starts. Planted two large seedlings a little late while still early in the drought of 2021 just north of the Umpqua basin in foothills in Douglas County. Both plants vigorous with several vines and all vines set several fruit with most ripening fully before I harvested. Cured as per recommendations. Fruit nice size, a little bigger than I expected, most about five to six pounds with one much larger. Not sure how watering affected taste since I’m new at this, but I experimented with lower watering as I attempt to move toward mostly dry farming for all veg. Also planted adjacent to pole beans and nasturtiums. I did water during the hottest days but tried to focus on mulches and compost to preserve moisture. A most beautiful and delicious squash that is keeping well so far. Thank you!
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