Blue Hubbard Squash (102 Days)

The Blue Hubbard Squash is a New England favorite (a less refined version was introduced by James Gregory of Marblehead, Massachusetts in 1856, but it had been grown in the area since the 1700's) that is not for those with limited space. Long vines produce good yields of powdery blue, oval squash with a hard shell and firm, dry, yellow flesh, some in excess of 20 pounds. Storage qualities are exceptional and of course one will provide a number of meals. 

15 seeds

PLANTING

Cucurbita maxima

Germination: 7-10 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-85ºF

Seed Sowing Depth: 1/2-1" deep

Sowing Indoors: 3-4 weeks before last frost. Provide 70-85ºF soil temperature. Sow 2-3 seeds per cell/pot. Sowing into individual biodegradable peat/cow pots reduces root damage when transplanting. Transplant after last frost, 36-48" apart. 

Sowing Outdoors: Sow after last frost when soil temperature is over 70ºF. Sow a few seeds every 36-48". 

How much does a packet plant: 12-15 foot single row, 3-5 hills

Harvest: Before heavy frost. Determine ripeness when the skin has turned color and becomes dull dry. You will be unable to create a dent when pressing your thumbnail into it. Leave two inches of the stem on the squash and manage carefully so there is no damage which can shorten storage life. Cure for 7-10 days in the sun to harden the rind and increase storage quality. Wipe any debris off skin before storing in a cool dark place with 50-55ºF temperatures and 50-65% humidity.

Tips: Plant Blue Hubbard Squash in fertile soil, amended with compost or well rotted manure and keep well watered. They benefit from growing on black plastic and by using row covers for weed, insect control, and more rapid growth.