Anyone who grows their own butternut is faced with the question in late summer of when the vegetable is ready to harvest. Some clues reveal the current state of maturity. If the harvest takes place too early, the pulp can continue to ripen under certain conditions.
When is the right time to harvest butternut squash?
The ideal time to harvest butternut squash is between July and September, when the stems become woody and the skin takes on a delicate yellow color. A hollow sound when tapped indicates the ripeness of the pumpkin.
Pumpkins ready for harvest
You can harvest the vegetables between July and September. The butternut is ready to harvest when its stems begin to become woody. As the fruit ripens, the color of the peel changes. Initially the pumpkins have a greenish-yellow texture. When ripe, the outer skin takes on a pale yellow color. This is also very firm and makes a hollow sound when you knock it.
Allowing unripe pumpkins to ripen again
For a butternut to ripen successfully, the shell must have already solidified. On the other hand, lightening the outer skin is not important. Place the vegetables in a warm and well-ventilated place. It is important that the pumpkin receives the same amount of air and heat from all sides. When stored in a bed of straw, temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees and low humidity, ripening is complete after two to three weeks.
Reasons for ripening:
- coming frost threatens to destroy pumpkins
- The ability of seeds to germinate increases through further ripening
- The aroma of the pulp becomes more intense
Proper storage
Butternut squash is one of the longest-lasting varieties. The vegetables can survive for up to eight months without any loss of quality as long as the peel is not damaged. Store the pumpkins in nets hung from the ceiling. In this way you prevent pressure points and prevent mold from forming. If the temperature is between ten and 13 degrees, ideal storage conditions prevail.
Usage
To test whether the pumpkin is still good, you should taste a small amount. If the meat tastes bitter, it is no longer suitable for consumption. If the butternut has been cut, you should use up the pulp quickly. It will keep in the fridge for two to three days. The pumpkin seeds can be reused. Roasted in a pan and sprinkled with sea s alt, they make a delicate treat.
Tip
Before eating, you should peel the butternut because the outer skin is very tough.
