Buttercup
95d to harvest
Buttery-sweet Buttercup Squash delivers a vivid, sunlit exterior and a dense, velvety interior that feels almost custardy when fully ripened. The flesh is rich and aromatic with a smooth, fine-grained texture that holds its character beautifully for roasting and mashing, and it also shines in soups, sauces, and hearty baked preparations. Grow Buttercup for a dependable 95-day harvest and a showpiece squash that tastes as good as it looks.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Apr 27th |
| Last Frost | May 4th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | May 11th |
| Harvest Begins | Aug 14th |
| Harvest Ends | Oct 5th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 95 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Vine |
| Support Needed | Trellis |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 70 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 65 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 55 |
| Harden Off (days) | 10 |
Frequently Asked Questions
My buttercup leaves are mottled and curling—what pest or disease is most likely, and what should I do?
Mottled, curling leaves on buttercup are often a sign of aphids feeding and spreading viruses. Spray the plants with a strong jet of water to knock aphids off, then apply insecticidal soap (especially under leaves) every 5–7 days for 2–3 rounds. Remove and discard any badly distorted plants to limit virus spread in the bed.
How can I tell when buttercup is ready to harvest (95 days)?
Harvest when flower buds are fully colored and just starting to open, and the stems are firm rather than soft. If you’re growing buttercup for seed, wait until the seed heads turn tan-brown and the seeds rattle inside when gently shaken. In both cases, harvest in the morning after dew dries to reduce rots on cut stems.