Winter Squash Seeds, Sucrine Du Berry

star-filled
4
18 Reviews
Sku:
#SQ171
Min. seed count:
20
$4.00

Description

(Cucurbita moschata).  A famous old traditional variety from the heart of France. It has a sweet, musky fragrance and a delicious, sweet flesh that is used in jams, soups, and many French recipes. The small 3-5 lb fruit are perfect for roasting and have deep orange flesh. Oblong, bell-shaped fruit is tannish-orange in color when mature. We are happy to introduce this flavorful variety to America.

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

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

 Sucrine du Berry squash grows best in well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. Before planting, work compost or well-aged manure into the soil to ensure it is nutrient-rich. This squash variety requires full sun, so plant it in a location that receives at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Regular, deep watering is crucial, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging the soil as this can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and control weeds​.

When to Grow

Sucrine du Berry squash is best started indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the last frost when the soil temperature has reached at least 70 F. If direct sowing is preferred, wait until the danger of frost has completely passed and the soil has warmed adequately, as these plants are very sensitive to frost.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds about 1/2-1 inch deep in hills or rows. If planting in hills, place 3-4 seeds per hill and thin to the two strongest plants once seedlings emerge. For rows, space the plants 18-36 inches apart to allow room for their sprawling vines. When transplanting seedlings started indoors, make sure to harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before planting them in the garden, and be careful not to disturb the roots in the process.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent moisture levels by watering deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Applying mulch can help conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize periodically with a balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth and fruit development. Keep an eye out for pests like squash bugs and vine borers, which can damage the plants. Use organic methods like neem oil or physical removal to manage these pests​.

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

How long does it take for Sucrine du Berry squash to mature?
This variety typically takes about 100 days from planting to reach maturity, depending on growing conditions.

How long can Sucrine du Berry squash be stored after harvesting?
After proper curing, it can be stored in a cool, dry place for several months, often lasting through the winter. The key is to make sure that the squash is fully mature and has a hard rind before storing.

What are common pests that affect Sucrine du Berry squash, and how can they be managed?
Common pests include squash bugs and vine borers. Squash bugs can be managed by handpicking or using neem oil, while vine borers may require cutting them out of the stems if they infest your plants. Preventative measures such as crop rotation and using row covers can also help reduce the impact of these pests.

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Winter Squash Seeds, Sucrine Du Berry
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Customer reviews (18)