Butternut squash is a favorite among gardeners for its sweet, nutty flavor and versatility in the kitchen. But how do you know when it’s time to harvest your butternut squash to enjoy the best taste and longest storage? Let’s dive into the simple signs that tell you your squash is ready to pick, plus some handy tips on harvesting and storing.
Signs Your Butternut Squash Is Ready to Harvest
1. Color Change: From Green to Deep Beige or Tan
One of the clearest signs that butternut squash is ready to harvest is its color. When immature, the squash skin is green. As it ripens, it changes to a solid, deep beige or tan color with no green streaks. Some varieties may show bronze or orange highlights, but the key is that the green should be completely gone.
2. Hard Skin That Passes the Fingernail Test
The skin, or rind, of a ripe butternut squash is hard and tough. To test this, press your fingernail into the skin. If it leaves a mark or punctures the skin, the squash isn’t ready. Mature squash will resist this pressure, and the skin will feel dull rather than shiny.
3. Dry, Yellowing, or Dying Vines and Stems
Look at the plant’s vines and stems. When the squash is ripe, the vines begin to die back — turning yellow, crispy, and shriveled. The stem attached to the squash should be hard, dry, and tan or brown in color. A green stem means the squash needs more time to mature.
4. Time Since Planting: About 90 to 120 Days
Butternut squash usually takes about 90 to 120 days from planting to reach maturity, depending on the variety and growing conditions. If you planted your seeds in late spring, expect to harvest by late summer or early fall. However, always confirm readiness by checking the physical signs rather than relying solely on days.
Why Timing Your Harvest Matters
Harvesting butternut squash at the right time affects both flavor and storage life.
– Flavor: Fully mature squash develops a sweet, creamy, and nutty flavor. Picking too early results in bland taste and watery texture, while waiting too long risks the squash becoming fibrous or soft.
– Storage: Properly harvested squash with hard skin stores well for months in a cool, dry place. Squash picked too early or damaged by frost will spoil quickly.
How to Harvest Butternut Squash Correctly
– Use a sharp knife or pruners to cut the squash from the vine, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) of stem attached. This helps prevent rot.
– Avoid pulling or twisting the squash off the vine, which can damage the fruit or plant.
– Harvest before the first heavy frost. If frost is expected and some squash aren’t fully ripe, it’s better to pick them early to avoid damage.
After Harvest: Curing and Storing Your Squash
To extend the life of your butternut squash:
– Cure the squash: Place them in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area (about 80-85°F or 27-29°C) for 10-14 days. This hardens the skin and heals minor cuts.
– Storage: After curing, store squash in a cool (50-55°F or 10-13°C), dry place with good air circulation. Properly cured and stored squash can last 3-6 months or longer.
Quick Tips Summary
– Wait until the squash skin is fully beige/tan with no green.
– Skin should be hard and resist fingernail pressure.
– Vines and stems should be dry, yellowing, or brown.
– Harvest before frost, leaving a couple of inches of stem.
– Cure squash for two weeks before long-term storage.
Enjoy your delicious, homegrown butternut squash at its peak!
Butternut squash is ready to harvest when the skin turns a deep beige, the rind is hard enough to resist fingernail pressure, and the vines and stems are dry and dying back. Harvest before frost, leaving a bit of stem attached, and cure your squash for longer storage and better flavor.