Sowing window (UK)April to May
Minimum soil temperature15°C at seed depth
Sowing depth3 cm
Spacing120 cm apart
Days to germination7 days
Days to harvest110 days
Sowing methodStart under cover, transplant out
Frost hardyNo
Sunfull-sun
Wateringhigh
Plant familyCucurbitaceae

When should I sow Butternut Squash 'Waltham' in the UK?

In the UK, sow Butternut Squash 'Waltham' from April to May. It is normally started under cover and transplanted. Wait until the soil has reached 15°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - butternut squash will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Butternut Squash 'Waltham' need to germinate?

Butternut Squash 'Waltham' needs a minimum soil temperature of 15°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Butternut Squash 'Waltham'?

For Butternut Squash 'Waltham', sow it 3cm deep and space plants 120cm apart.

How long does Butternut Squash 'Waltham' take to grow?

Butternut Squash 'Waltham' takes roughly 110 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 7 days.

Is Butternut Squash 'Waltham' frost hardy?

No. Butternut Squash 'Waltham' is not frost hardy. Do not put it outside until the risk of frost has passed in your area, and be ready to fleece it if a late frost is forecast.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.