How to grow Butternut Squash in the UK
Cucurbita moschata
Butternut Squash (Cucurbita moschata) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Long season — needs sun and warmth. Cured squash store for months in a cool dry place. This guide covers when and how to sow Butternut Squash, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Butternut Squash
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Sow | May | Jun Plant | Jul | Aug | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov Harvest | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, free-draining soil enriched with garden compost
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.0 (neutral)
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 2.5 cm on edge
- Spacing
- 1–1.5 m apart
- Sowing
- Sow indoors Apr–May; plant out after frost
- Growing
- Hungry and thirsty; trail or train up supports
- Harvest & upkeep
- Winter types: cure in the sun, store frost-free
- Watch for
- Slugs, powdery mildew
Companion planting for Butternut Squash
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
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Butternut Squash FAQs
When should I sow Butternut Squash in the UK?
In the UK, sow Butternut Squash in April. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Butternut Squash?
Butternut Squash grows well alongside Borage, Dwarf French Bean, Pot Marigold, Nasturtium, Runner Bean, Sunflower. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Butternut Squash?
Keep Butternut Squash away from Potato, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Butternut Squash need?
Butternut Squash prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Butternut Squash ready to harvest?
Butternut Squash is typically ready to harvest in September, October, November in the UK.
Is Butternut Squash easy to grow?
Moderate. Long season — needs sun and warmth. Cured squash store for months in a cool dry place.