- Description
- Growing Tips
- FAQs
- Specifications
Freshly Packed: These seeds are packed for the current growing season and will provide high germination rates next year as well.
Premium Packaging: All seeds from The Old Farmer’s Almanac are packaged in individually styled packets ideal for gifts, storage or immediate use. Each packet displays the flower, vegetable, plant or herb variety on the front with instructions and plant facts on the back.
Sow 1-2 seeds each in small hills as the summer fades to fall. Butternut Squash vines prefer loose, rich, slightly acidic soil. Water daily, and lay down mulch if possible, to keep the ground around the shallow roots moist; but well drained. Fast-maturing Waltham Butternut is a cool season crop; but it does need warmth, and often a late application of fertilizer, to fully develop its distinctive bell-like shape. When ready to harvest, detach squash stem from vines with a knife or shears.
Enjoy Waltham's your way! Harvest before the first frost to cure and store for use in the winter. Harvest after the first frost for a sweeter squash to eat right away. Harvest after the skin has toughened and the stems have turned from green to brown.
Wit & Wisdom: Presidents Washington and Jefferson grew squash in their gardens. Give it a try! Read The Old Farmer's Almanac Winter Squash Growing Guide!
Are Your Seeds Heirloom? What are Heirloom Seeds?
Heirloom Seeds (sometimes called Heritage Seeds) are open pollinated vegetable and herb seed strains that have been planted, grown and harvested for several generations (usually more than 30 or 50 years depending on the variety) with consistent results. Heirloom seeds are always non-GMO and are never hybrids. All of our vegetable and herb seeds are heirloom seeds.
Are Your Seeds Non-GMO? What Does Non-GMO Mean?
Non-GMO means seeds (or other products) that were produced without genetic engineering and were not derived from GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms). All of our seeds are non-GMO.
Where do Your Seeds Come From?
Most of the seeds offered on our site are USA Origin seeds sourced from certified US based suppliers. We do also source a small number of seeds from other countries. To view the specific origin of any of our current seed offerings, check the seed packet or look in the specifications for "Country of Origin" on any product page.
Are Your Seeds Packed for the Current Growing Season?
All of our seed packets are packed for the current growing season. If stored properly they will provide high germination rates for 1-2 additional years as well.
How Can I Store My Seeds Safely for Use in the Future?
Our seeds will generally retain their high germination rates for several years from the date of purchase. If you're planning on saving your seeds for us in the future, the most important thing to remember that seeds like to be stored where it is cool, dry and dark. The easiest way to ensure this for long term storage at home is to double-seal your seeds inside two zipper style bags and then place them in the freezer. (Make sure you label your seeds for future reference if they're not in original packaging.) When you're ready to plant your seeds, take just the ones you want to use out of the freezer and let them sit on a counter, in a covered container, for a few days to thaw and stabilize before being planted. To preserve germination rates, minimize temperature, light and humidity fluctuations by storing your seeds at the back of the freezer and only taking them out when you're ready to use them.
What Does the "Packed For" Year Mean on the Back of Seed Packets?
Federal regulations require seed packets to include "Packed For" Year markings. The "Packed For" Year is not an expiration date, it is only an indicator of when the seeds were packaged. "Packed For" Years can help gardeners determine how viable (able to germinate) seeds are likely to be. If stored properly -- in a dark, cool, dry place -- most seeds will deliver high germination rates for several years after the "Packed For" date.
The Package with my Seeds in was Left Outside in Freezing and/or Rainy Weather. Will the Seeds Still Work?
As long as your seeds have not gotten wet they should work fine. Freezing temperatures will not hurt the seeds.
Are Your Seeds Treated?
No. The USDA Certified Organic Program prohibits the use of treated seeds. All of our seeds -- whether certified organic or not -- are untreated.
The Old Farmer's Almanac Winter Squash Seeds (Waltham Butternut)
UPC Code | 850008688560 |
Seed Count | Approximately 8 Seeds Per Gram |
Packed for Year | These seeds are packed for the current growing season and will provide high germination rates next year as well. |
Country of Origin | United States |
Packaging | Packet or Resealable Pouch |
Seed Type | Non-GMO, Premium, Heirloom, Vegetable |
Life Cycle | Annual |
Hardiness Zone | USDA 3-11 |
Scientific (Latin) Name | Cucurbita maxima |
Growth Medium | Soil |
When to Plant | Late Summer, Early Fall |
Planting Depth | 3/4 Inch |
Plant Spacing | 4 Inches |
Row Spacing | 6 Feet |
Light Preference | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
Time to Germination | 7-14 Days |
Time to Maturity / Harvest | 85-90 Days |
Growth Habit | Spreading Vine |
Fruit / Vegetable Size | 8-12 Inches |
Re-Seeding | Harvest This Year's Seeds for Replanting Next Year |