- 1). Remove all weeds, grass and large rocks from the selected planting site. Loosen the soil to a depth of 7 to 8 inches. Amend with a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic compost.
- 2). Create hills of soil using a garden hoe. Plant five or six seeds at a depth of 1 inch in each hill. Leave a space of 5 to 6 feet between each hill. Add enough water to moisten the soil well.
- 3). Water the hills every two days until the seedlings begin to emerge. After the seedlings are established, add moisture anytime there has been less than 1 inch of rain in a week.
- 4). Remove weeds regularly with a garden hoe to prevent competition for water and nutrients.
- 5). Fertilize with organic fertilizer at the rate and frequency described on the package.
- 6). Inspect the plants often for signs of insect infestation. Treat promptly with insecticide if you suspect a problem.
- 7). Harvest butternut squash when the hull is very hard and smooth and the stems have turned brown. This usually occurs during September or October. Use a sharp knife to cut the vegetables free of the vine, leaving 2 inches of the stem attached to the squash.
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