Winter Squash
Winter Squash
Winter squash is a taxonomically diverse group of vegetables in the Cucurbita genus. Cultivars may belong to one of several species: Cucurbita pepo (acorn and spaghetti squashes), C. maxima (hubbard, buttercup and kabocha), C. moschata (butternut), and C. mixta (cushaw). Because these squash are harvested when mature and rinds have hardened, most types can be stored for use during the winter.
Key Requirements
| Land | Low |
| Labor | Medium to High |
| Capital | Low |
Take the HortBizQuiz to see how much Land, Labor, and Capital you have for your operation.
Markets
- Direct to Consumer
- Farmer's Market
- On-Farm Stands
- CSA
- Restaurants
- Wholesale Markets
- Auctions
Pests & Disease
Potential disease problems include black rot, downy mildew, Phytophthora blight, powdery mildew, yellow vine and viruses. Cucumber beetles, squash vine borer, spider mites, and squash bugs can become serious pests if not controlled.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Challenges
- Finding areas where the soil is well drained as winter squash produces best on drier soil.
- Can be susceptible to different types of fungus
Opportunities
- Greater use of winter squash for decorative purposes has helped increase demand.
- Performs well using black plastic on raised beds with trickle irrigation.
- Some varieties can be stored through the winter to extend the marketing season.