Winter Squash Seeds,
Canada Crookneck

Plant Canada Crookneck squash after the last frost when soil temperatures consistently exceed 65-70 F. In cooler climates, you can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost and transplant them outdoors once the soil is warm enough. Direct sowing in late spring is ideal for warmer regions. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Sow seeds 1/2-1 inch deep, spaced 18-36 inches apart, in rows that are 5-6 feet apart. Alternatively, plant in small mounds to improve drainage and soil warmth. Thin seedlings to the strongest plant per mound or row once they are established. Don’t let transplants become rootbound, and don't disturb roots while transplanting.

This squash requires consistent moisture; water deeply once or twice a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Apply mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer to support the heavy feeding needs of the plants​.

• There are four different species of squash: Cucurbita maxima, C. pepo, C. moschata, and C. mixta. They will not cross pollinate with each other, so it is possible to grow one of each species for seed saving without worrying about cross pollination.
• If you are planning to grow several varieties of more than one species, you can bag the blossoms and hand pollinate to avoid crossing.
• Whether it is a summer or winter squash, you must let the fruit completely mature before extracting the seeds, and cure for at least two weeks.
• Scoop the seeds, place them in a bucket, and add just enough water to cover. Let sit at room temperature to ferment for two days before rinsing off the pulp.
• Lay seeds out to dry on newspaper or paper plates.
• Stored in a cool, dry place, seeds will remain viable for up to four years.