A variety that produces medium sized fruit, with that distinctive nutty butternut flavour. Sow under glass in May and then plant out when the third true leaf is just starting to open. Harvest in autumn when they are fully mature.
'Waltham' is an improved version of the common Butternut squash. It has very little seed cavity, thicker & straighter necks, fruits earlier, and produces more flesh per fruit.
It was bred by the Massachusetts Ag. Extension Service in the 1960's by crossing 'New Hampshire Butternut' with a wild African squash.
The orange flesh stays firm when cooked, and it stores very well too.
SOW: Can be sown indoors and then planted out in May after risk of last frost has passed. Alternatively can be sown directly outdoors.
WHERE TO SOW:
Select a sunny spot well protected from strong winds. Squash are best sown directly into the soil after the risk of last frost has passed. Dig a 20cm deep hole and fill it with a mix of soil and compost, leaving a slight mound. Sow 2 or three seeds a few cm apart in the top of each mound. Sow at a depth of about 1.5cm and be sure to place the seeds on their edge. Germination is improved by placing a cloche over the mound for a few weeks.
