Winter Squash – Banana Pink Jumbo

SOWING: Seed directly into the garden in late spring after weather has warmed considerably and all danger of frost has passed. Seeds can also be started in individual peat pots indoors or in the greenhouse 2 to 3 weeks before setting out. Cover seeds with 1/2 to 3/4 inch of fine soil, well firmed down.
SPACING: Plant about 6 to 8 seeds per hill, spacing hills 3 to 4 feet apart.
THINNING AND TRANSPLANTING: When plants are about 4 inches tall carefully thin or transplant to 3 healthiest plants per hill.
GERMINATION: One to two weeks depending upon weather and soil, warmth. Keep soil moderately moist during germination.

Ed’s Special Advice: A well-fertilized soil kept moderately moist is to its liking. Carefully place a board or some straw under maturing fruit to keep it from being bruised by moist soil. Gather before frost, leaving part of the stem attached. Cure in a warm area for a week to 10 days, then store somewhere dry at 45° to 55° Fahrenheit.

SEED SAVING: If planted near other squash, may cross pollinate. Allow squash to fully ripen on vine. Remove seeds from squash, clean with water and dry for multiple days. Store in a cool, dry place.