Squash Winter, Tokyo Blue
120 days to maturity. Nicknamed aromatherapy chestnut pumpkin for its incredible sweetly scented flesh, this traditional variety was so popular in Tokyo that it is known throughout Japan simply as the Tokyo pumpkin. Originally introduced by a farmer in Tachikawa City, Tokyo, it became a popular market variety thanks to early maturity, attractive blue skin and an exceptionally fine grained, aromatic, bright yellow flesh. Seeds were first made available by Watanbe Seeds of the Miyagi Prefecture in 1931, and Tokyo markets were quickly filled with these signature scented squash. The virtues that made this an exemplary market variety of pre-WWII Japan, from early maturity to exceptional eating quality, are exactly what makes a fantastic farmers market variety in today’s slow food renaissance.
- 8-12 hrs of Sun
- Sprouts in 5-10 Days
- Ideal Temperature: 70-95 F
- Seed Depth: ½-1”
- Plant Spacing: 18-36"
- Frost Hardy: No
- Cucurbita maxima
Growing Tips: Direct seed or set out transplants after last frost date. Don’t let transplants become rootbound; don't disturb roots while transplanting. Needs rich soil. Harvest when rinds become very hard.