Squash, Winter 'Black Futsu'
Cucurbita moschata
An enchanting Japanese variety that is as visually appealing as it is delicious, with a unique fruity flavor. Bumpy exterior starts out dark green (almost black) and ages into a beautiful slate grey and blush. Skin is thin and edible, so there is no need to peel. Long vines. Stores 4–5 months (we still have a few in storage going strong). Average weight 2–4 pounds.
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as enjoying garden harvests well into the fall and winter. When the garden is blanketed in snow, I’m especially grateful for the sweet taste of winter squash—whether drizzled with maple butter, roasted to perfection, or simmered into a rich pasta sauce.
Packet contains approximately 20 seeds.
DETAILS
Plant type: Annual
Days to maturity: 105 days
Light preference: Full sun
Plant spacing: See below
Hybrid status: Open pollinated
SOWING
Depth: 1/2-1 inch
Days to germination: 75–95°F
How to Grow
Sow indoors 3 weeks before transplanting out after danger of frost. Roots do not like disturbance, so we prefer to direct sow. Direct sow in late spring when soil is at least 70°F and danger of frost has passed. Sow 2 seeds at the appropriate spacing for the variety's vine length, 1/2- to 1-inch deep. Thin to one plant.
Spacing: To keep things simple, we space 36” apart in rows 6’ apart (as close as 24" on a trellis), but here are more-precise recommendations. Between-row spacing: bush plants, 4-5’; short vines, 6’; long-vines, 12’. In-row spacing: small, 18–24”; medium, 24–36”; large to XL, 36–72”.
Harvest & Storage
Fruits are typically ready about 50–55 days after fruit set, and should be harvested before any hard frosts. Harvest when stems are dry and corky. Sun cure by exposing fruits for 5–7 days. Store at 50–55°F and 50–75% relative humidity and good ventilation. Repeated exposure to temperatures below 50°F may cause chilling damage. Potential storage/optimal period: 4–5+ months.
SHIPPING
FREE: $100 or more on any seeds
$3.95: 1–9 seed packets
$7.95: 10+ seed packets
Photo Credit: Johnny's, Adaptive, and Petal Back Farm
