Robin’s Koginut Winter Squash
Let’s talk about growing Winter (not Summer) Squash in our North Texas gardens. First things first. Winter Squash/Summer Squash – what’s the difference?
Common Summer Squash varieties like Yellow Crock Neck, Zucchini, and Patty Pan are well known, Texas veggie garden staples. Technically speaking, these varieties are harvested before the squash is fully mature – the skin is still soft and edible. Time-to-Maturity (from seeds) for summer squash varieties is usually 50-60 days. Storage time (refrigerated) is about a week
Winter squash is different. Varieties like Acorn, Butternut and Kabocha take much longer to mature than Summer Squash – usually 90-100 days. Winter Squash is harvested once the skin is hardened, and will keep for weeks or even months if stored properly.
Growing Winter Squash
Winter Squash can be started indoors or direct-seeded in the garden. The best harvest time is mid-October before the killing frosts hit in November. When the stems get woody and the skin is hardened, it’s time to pick.
One space-saving tip. Winter squash vines grow fast, and can create quite the garden “sprawl”. To save space in our raised bed garden, we like to plant Winter Squash under growing corn stalks. Plant the Winter Squash Seeds (or transfer starts) when the corn stalks are knee-high. Shade from the growing corn protects young squash plants from the brutal Texas sun. Once the corn is harvested the stalks can be pulled up or snipped off at ground level.
Winter Squash Growing Under Corn
Winter Squash – Good Eats
Winter Squash varieties are closely related to pumpkins. Their flesh tends to meaty and sweet. They make great soups, pies, side dishes, and healthy snacks , Here are our three favorites Winter Squash varieties.
Robin’s Koginut
This squash is like a small pumpkin. The flesh is rich and sweet. It makes a great pumpkin substitute in pies and custard. NOTE: These seeds can only be purchased from Row 7 Seeds and often are unavailable.
Delicata
Delicata squash is almost too pretty to eat, but don’t let that stop you. Delicata makes a great dish when sliced into crescents and roasted. The meat is rich and the edible skin gives a slight crunch.
Futsu
This is a small wart covered pumpkin. It may not be pretty, but it has a delicious nutty flavor when roasted. Like the Delicata, the Black Futsu skin is edible.
Delicata Winter Squash
Roasted Delicata
Futsu Winter Squash
There are dozens of Winter Squash varieties. They are easy to grow, pretty, keep well and the best part – they are a treat to eat on those cold winter days when you are planning next year’s garden.