Black Futsu Squash Seeds, Rare Japanese Heirloom

Kansas homestead. Cucurbita moschata varieties are generally less susceptible to squash vine borers than many other squash, but damage is still possible. Growing conditions and care matter. Why species predicts survival here. 🛡️ Vine borer resistance , the solid stems of Cucurbita moschata can offer some resistance to squash vine borers, but plants still need monitoring for damage. 🌱 Free shipping on seed-only website orders $30+ , ships from Newton, Kansas. ✅ Germination Promise: if your seeds fail to germinate under proper growing conditions, contact us within one year and we will replace them or refund your purchase. See the details . 📖 Read our complete growing guide for this variety → A prized Japanese heirloom with a dark, warty rind that ripens from near-black to rich bronze-tan. Dense, sweet, nutty orange flesh with a dry texture perfect for roasting and soups. Treated: Film-coated with a fungicide for improved germination and early-season vigor, ideal for wet spring conditions or gardeners who want maximum germination rates. Untreated: Natural, uncoated seeds, the right choice for gardeners who prefer no fungicide treatment or who want to save seeds for replanting. Growing Guide Botanic Name Cucurbita moschata Life Cycle Annual Maturity 100 to 105 days Sun Full sun Plant Spacing 36-48" apart Sowing Depth 1" Vine Habit Vine Fruit Weight 3-5 lbs Fruit Color Dark green, matures to bronze Best For Roasting, soup, baking Frost Hardy No Start Indoors Yes, 3 weeks before last frost Container Friendly No Curing 2-3 weeks in a warm, dry spot Storage Life 4 to 6 months, well cured Peak Eating Window Flavor intensifies significantly with storage time Seed Treatment Select above Note (Treated option only): Treated seeds contain fungicide coating. Do not eat. Not for use in certified programs. History & Origin Black Futsu has been grown in Japan for centuries, treasured for its nutty, chestnut-like flavor and striking appearance. The flattened, deeply ribbed fruits are small enough for single-serving meals yet pack serious culinary intensity. Seed companies across North America prize it as one of the most flavorful winter squash in any collection. In the Kitchen Halve and roast at high heat to bring out its natural sugars, the skin crisps and becomes edible when roasted well. Excellent in miso soup, pureed into savory squash custard, or stuffed and baked. The dry flesh makes an exceptionally rich soup base without becoming watery. Related Reading · Kansas Planting Calendar 🌱 Browse all vine borer resistant varieties → 🌻 See our Kansas growing guide → Quick Specs Species Cucurbita moschata Days to maturity 100 to 105 Sowing 1 in deep, hills 4 to 6 ft apart Sun Full sun Vine habit Vines 10 to 15 ft Fruit size 3 to 5 lb Pest resistance Cucurbita moschata is generally less susceptible to squash vine borer damage, but damage is still possible. Scout vines in June and July. Common Questions Is Black Futsu Squash really vine borer resistant? Cucurbita moschata is generally less susceptible to squash vine borer damage, but damage is still possible. Scout vines in June and July. When should I plant Black Futsu Squash in Kansas? Direct sow or transplant once soil holds 65 to 70 F, typically mid May to early June in Zone 6b. At 100 to 105 days to maturity, a late May planting ripens in September to October, right on time for curing before frost. What does Black Futsu taste like? Nutty and sweet, often compared to chestnut. The black-green skin ripens to a dusty tan in storage and the fruit are small enough for one meal, which makes it a favorite for small kitchens. Will it ripen before frost? Black Futsu Squash needs 100 to 105 days from sowing. In a typical Newton, Kansas Zone 6b season the first fall frost arrives between October 10 and 20, so direct sow by about June 18 to finish with a two week cushion. Planting later, or gardening in a different zone? Check your own planting window .