Winter Squash Seeds,
New England Sugar Pie Pumpkin

Plant after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently above 60 F since squash is extremely sensitive to frost. In colder climates, start seeds indoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost date and transplant them once the weather warms up​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Sow seeds 1/2-1 inch deep in rows or hills. Space plants 18-36 inches apart in rows 6-8 feet apart, allowing plenty of space for the vines to spread. If you’re starting seeds indoors, transplant seedlings when they have developed a few true leaves and the risk of frost has passed​. When transplanting, be careful not to disturb the roots.

Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and mildew. Water the base of the plants, not the foliage, to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Use a balanced fertilizer at planting, then side-dress with compost or organic fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and control weeds​.

• There are four main species of squash: Cucurbita maxima, C. pepo, C. moschata, and C. mixta. They will not cross pollinate with each other, so it is possible to grow one of each species for seed saving without worrying about cross pollination.
• If you are planning to grow several varieties of more than one species, you can bag the blossoms and hand pollinate to avoid crossing.
• Whether it is a summer or winter squash, you must let the fruit completely mature before extracting the seeds, and cure for at least two weeks.
• Scoop the seeds, place them in a bucket, and add just enough water to cover. Let sit at room temperature to ferment for two days before rinsing off the pulp.
• Lay seeds out to dry on newspaper or paper plates.
• Stored in a cool, dry place, seeds will remain viable for up to four years.