Winter Squash

Winter Squash Overview

The genus Cucurbita contains some of the fastest growing vegetables, usually known as Pumpkin, Squash, Marrow and Courgette. They come in all shapes and sizes, from traditional Halloween pumpkins and butternut squash to more unusual varieties such as ‘Turk’s Turban’ and ‘Crown Prince’. Fun to grow, these trailing vine species need full sun, plenty of water and rich soil. Seeds are planted in spring, male flowers will bloom first, followed by female flowers (farmers use bees to help pollinate, so they can harvest a good crop) and they are harvested from summer to autumn. Pumpkins and Squash in particular, can become very heavy, so they benefit from being grown up a sturdy support structure. As a food, they're very versatile and can be roasted, used in stews and curries or blended to make a delicious autumn soup. Most varieties store for up to a few months and you can enjoy your home-grown fare throughout the winter months. Smaller species such as Courgettes, are great for small spaces, can be eaten in salads, but do not store so well, so eat as soon as harvested! y