Winter Squash Seeds, Canada Crookneck

star-filled
4.5
11 Reviews
Sku:
#SQ266
Min. seed count:
20
$3.50

Description

(Cucurbita moschata). This is an Old New England variety, preserved at Old Sturbridge Village, Massachusetts, where our foundation seed came from. It has been reported to originate among the Iroquois Indians. Introduced in 1834 by Boston seedsman Charles H. Hovey. This ancestor of today’s butternut was described in detail in Fearing Burr’s 1865 book Field and Garden Vegetables of America. The bottle-shaped fruit reaches 2-4 lbs and has a curved neck and fine-grained, sweet flesh. Resistant to pests and diseases; a superlative keeper. Formerly quite common, it has become very difficult to find, and we are pleased to offer it.

  • 100 days to maturity
  • 6-8 hours of full sun
  • Sprouts in 5-10 days
  • Seed Depth: 1/2-1”
  • Plant Spacing: 18-36"
  • Ideal Temperature: 70-95 F
  • Frost Hardy: No

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

This heritage winter squash thrives in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. Make sure it gets 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to enhance fertility. Consistent watering, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages, is essential to prevent stress and promote healthy growth.

When to Grow

Plant Canada Crookneck squash after the last frost when soil temperatures consistently exceed 65-70 F. In cooler climates, you can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost and transplant them outdoors once the soil is warm enough. Direct sowing in late spring is ideal for warmer regions.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/2-1 inch deep, spaced 18-36 inches apart, in rows that are 5-6 feet apart. Alternatively, plant in small mounds to improve drainage and soil warmth. Thin seedlings to the strongest plant per mound or row once they are established. Don’t let transplants become rootbound, and don't disturb roots while transplanting.

How to Grow

This squash requires consistent moisture; water deeply once or twice a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Apply mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer to support the heavy feeding needs of the plants​.

How to Save
  • There are four different 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.
FAQ

When can I harvest Canada Crookneck squash?
This variety typically takes around 100 days to mature, depending on growing conditions.

What pests and diseases should I watch for?
Common issues include squash bugs, aphids, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and organic pest control methods like neem oil can help manage these problems​.

Is Canada Crookneck squash suitable for small gardens?
Due to its vining habit, it’s better suited for larger spaces unless grown vertically on a trellis​.

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Winter Squash Seeds, Canada Crookneck
star-filled
4.5
Customer reviews (11)

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