Germination
7-14 days
Planting
Plant seeds in slightly acidic, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Sow ½-1” deep, in hills 3-5’ apart, when the soil temperature has reached 70℉. Seeds can be started indoors 3-4 weeks ahead of the last frost, and then transplanted into the garden. Maturity is reached in 90-120 days.
Harvesting
Harvest when fruits are full size and the rinds cannot be easily dented with a fingernail. Store at 50-55℉. Winter squash can be stored for many months, and are great in stews and baked goods.
Description
A standard Hubbard squash can grow to weigh 15-49 pounds. Baby Blue Hubbard squash is great for gardens with space limitations or for smaller households, as the fruits only grow to about 6 pounds. The skin is blue and the flesh is golden-yellow with great flavor.
Profile
Planting Depth: ½-1 inch
Soil Temperature: 70℉
Germination: 7-14 days
Plant Spacing: 3-5 feet
Row Spacing: 5 feet
Maturity: 90-120 days
Soil: Organic, well-drained, slightly acidic
Growing Habit: Small vine
Sun: Full sun
Fruit Size: Around 6 pounds
History
Winter squash is native to South America where it was first domesticated. Native Americans have been growing squash for many thousands of years. The tough, inedible skin of winter squash allows it to be stored for many months. Baby Blue Hubbard squash was developed at the University of New Hampshire in 1953 as a cross between a Blue Hubbard and a Bush Buttercup.
Connection to Extension
Baby blue hubbard is one of the seeds offered by Strawbery Banke Museum through our free seed for education program.
This planting guide was created through partnership among Strawbery Banke Museum, New Hampshire School & Youth Garden Network, New Hampshire Master Gardener Alumni Association and UNH Extension Master Gardeners.
