Best Squash Varieties for New Hampshire: A Guide for Gardeners

Squash is a versatile and rewarding crop for gardeners in New Hampshire, offering a bountiful harvest with the right varieties. The state’s climate, characterized by cool springs, warm summers, and early fall frosts, plays a crucial role in selecting the best types of squash. Whether you’re interested in summer squash or winter squash, choosing varieties that thrive in New Hampshire’s conditions will set you up for gardening success. Here’s a guide to some of the best squash varieties for your garden.

Understanding New Hampshire’s Growing Conditions

New Hampshire falls within USDA hardiness zones 3 to 6, with shorter growing seasons in the northern part of the state and longer ones in the south. Squash, particularly winter varieties, require full sun, well-drained soil, and a consistent watering routine to thrive. The growing season typically extends from late May or early June (after the last frost) until late September or October (before the first frost).

Best Summer Squash Varieties

Summer squash matures quickly and can be harvested throughout the growing season. These varieties are perfect for New Hampshire’s relatively short summers:

  1. ‘Yellow Crookneck’ Squash: This heirloom variety produces curved, yellow-skinned fruits with a bumpy texture. It is prolific, easy to grow, and ideal for both cooking and fresh consumption. It matures in about 50-60 days.

  2. ‘Zucchini’ (various types): Zucchini is a staple summer squash, with popular varieties like ‘Black Beauty’ and ‘Raven’ performing well in New Hampshire’s climate. Zucchini is fast-growing, producing high yields within 45-55 days.

  3. ‘Patty Pan’ (Scallop Squash): Also known as scallop squash, this variety is shaped like a flying saucer and offers a tender, nutty flavor. Varieties like ‘Sunburst’ (yellow) and ‘Benning’s Green Tint’ are reliable choices, maturing in 50-55 days.

  4. ‘Costata Romanesco’: An Italian heirloom zucchini with ribbed, light green skin and a rich flavor. It’s known for being highly productive and is favored for its texture, both raw and cooked.

Best Winter Squash Varieties

Winter squash takes longer to mature but provides excellent storage for winter meals. These varieties are well-suited for New Hampshire’s climate:

  1. ‘Butternut’ Squash: A classic winter squash, ‘Waltham Butternut’ is particularly popular in New Hampshire. It’s a reliable performer with a sweet, nutty flavor, perfect for soups, pies, and roasting. It matures in 85-100 days and stores well.

  2. ‘Acorn’ Squash: Varieties like ‘Table King’ and ‘Honey Bear’ do well in cooler climates and are ready to harvest in about 70-85 days. Acorn squash has dark green skin and sweet, tender flesh that is perfect for baking.

  3. ‘Delicata’ Squash: This smaller winter squash variety has a creamy texture and sweet flavor, with thin, edible skin. It matures in 80-100 days and stores well for up to three months.

  4. ‘Hubbard’ Squash: A traditional New England favorite, ‘Blue Hubbard’ is known for its large size, blue-gray skin, and sweet, dry flesh. It requires a long growing season of 100-120 days but can store for up to six months, making it ideal for long winters.

  5. ‘Spaghetti’ Squash: This unique variety produces stringy flesh that can be used as a pasta substitute. It matures in 80-100 days and stores well. Varieties like ‘Vegetable Spaghetti’ and ‘Small Wonder’ are particularly good choices.

Tips for Growing Squash in New Hampshire

  • Start Indoors: For winter squash, starting seeds indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost date can give you a head start.
  • Mulch and Water: Consistent watering and mulching can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, which is crucial during dry spells.
  • Pollination: Squash plants rely heavily on pollinators. Planting flowers like marigolds, sunflowers, and zinnias nearby can attract bees and improve pollination rates.
  • Pest Management: Keep an eye out for common squash pests like squash bugs and vine borers. Row covers and regular inspection can help protect your crops.

Conclusion

With the right squash varieties, New Hampshire gardeners can enjoy a bountiful harvest from summer through winter. Whether you prefer the quick production of summer squash or the long-lasting storage of winter squash, these recommended varieties will thrive in your garden, bringing vibrant color, flavor, and nutrition to your table. Happy gardening!