Squash – Winter – Burgess Buttercup

Squash – ‘Winter – Burgess Buttercup’

• Growing Temp 70°F – 85°F

• Days to Maturity 90-110 days

Ease of Cultivation and delightful flavor: Burgess Buttercup squash is a classic winter squash variety cherished for its rich, sweet flavor and creamy texture. It is moderately easy to grow, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. With proper care, this plant produces vibrant, dark green fruits that are excellent for baking, mashing, or adding to soups and stews, making it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant Burgess Buttercup seeds outdoors after the last frost date, once the soil temperature reaches at least 70°F. Sow seeds about 1 inch deep and 3-4 feet apart in rows that are 5-6 feet apart. Germination typically occurs within 7-14 days. Ensure consistent soil moisture during the growing season, and consider using mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. As the plants mature, they will need ample space to spread, so plan accordingly.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To get a jump start on the season, sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays with a quality potting mix, placing 1-2 seeds per cell. Maintain a temperature of 70-75°F to encourage germination. Once seedlings have developed at least two sets of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 3-4 feet apart. Water the seedlings well after planting and mulch around them to help retain moisture and control weeds.

Harvesting: To identify when Burgess Buttercup squash is ready to harvest, look for fruits that have developed a deep, rich green color and a hard rind, usually 90-110 days after sowing. The stem should dry out and turn brown, indicating that the fruit is mature. Harvest before the first frost, as cold temperatures can damage the squash. Use a sharp knife or pruners to cut the squash from the vine, leaving a few inches of stem for better storage longevity.