How to Plant Butternut Squash in BC
- 1). Plant butternut squash in 12-inch pots that hold at least 5 gallons of soil for adequate room and balance. Use pots that have drainage holes to give the plants good drainage and keep them from sitting in water at any time.
- 2). Fill the pots with a combination of 1 part quick-draining soil and 1 part organic compost to give butternut squash a good level of drainage and nutrition. Fill the pots to within 1 to 3 inches of the lip to leave space for watering.
- 3). Plant butternut squash seedlings in early spring to give them a full 90 days to mature. Plant each seedling 1 to 3 inches deep so their root balls are entirely covered. Pack soil around the roots to secure the plants.
- 4). Keep seedlings indoors until all chance of frost has passed. In some areas of British Columbia, like Prince George, this may be as late as June. When temperatures warm to 60 degrees Fahrenheit, put the pots in outdoor areas where they'll get at least eight hours of summer sun every day, with protection from wind.
- 5). Water butternut squash with 1/2 inch of water every day to maintain soil moisture. In July, when the squash begins to bloom, supplement waterings with once-a-week fertilizer applications. Use 20-20-20 fertilizer per the directions on the package to bolster the squash's nutrition and encourage both blooming and fruiting.
- 6). Harvest butternut squash in September to October.
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