From the Ground Up
Winter squash can provide next year’s seeds Cooperative Extension alternative crops specialist Andy Hankins. Hybrid seeds won’t be true to the parent crop, because it is produced by cross-pollinating plants. Openpollinated seeds—like the ones that Frost grows—are seeds saved from the previous crop and will grow true to that crop. To prepare seeds for seed production, cut open a squash, scoop the seeds out and let them sit for a few days. “You want to separate the pulp from the seeds,” Frost said. “Spread them on a coarse screen, and hose them down to help remove the pulp more easily.” The seeds can be dried in front of a fan or outdoors, as long as the weather is warm and dry. Once the seeds are dry, they should be kept in an airtight container in the freezer or refrigerator. Frost said butternut squash is good when baked and is easily freezable so it can be enjoyed all winter long.
photos by sara owens
Winter squash varieties are hard on the outside and are harvested in the fall and eaten during the winter. They include butternut squash, acorn squash, buttercup squash, edible pumpkins and kabocha squash. Edmund Frost from Twin Oaks Community in Louisa County grows butternut squash for use in the community’s seed production business, as well as for Twin Oaks residents to eat. Frost sells seeds to Southern Exposure Seed Exchange in Louisa. “We planted the squash seeds in mid-May and harvested the squash in September,” he said. “Butternut squash are fairly straightforward and easy to grow. Weed control is a lot of work. We use a hoe and tractor to help control the weeds, and we use drip irrigation to water the squash.” When shopping for seeds it is important to note the difference between hybrid and open-pollinated seeds, said Virginia
Butternut squash are “fairly straightforward and easy to grow,” and can be used in a variety of meals. Their seeds can be saved for next year’s garden. 26
Cultivate NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012
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