AboutElyse Grau Expertise I can answer most questions on vegetable and fruit growing, in particular those that pertain to the Northwest, Midwest and other cool areas of the country. I prefer to use only organic/natural methods and materials.
Experience I have Master Gardener training and have been gardening for over 25 years. I use organic and natural methods only. I live on 5 acres and have a large vegetable garden, as well as orchard, grapevines and berries.
Question I have never grown Butternut Squash before and I saw your comment about when to pick it. My question is how soon can you pick it? Our frost is already here and the vines are all still green. The squash is about 10 inches long and is no longer totally green. Montana doesn't have a real long growing season.
If I pick it now will it ripen inside the house?
Answer Teresa:
If the squash is tan in color it is probably ripe. they won't ripen off the vine, so I suggest you cut one and try it. If they have been hit by frost already, their storage life may be shortened. You can still use them, however if you have a lot, you may want to blanch and freeze some of them for long-term storage.
