Is Cucurbita maxima a winter squash?

What is the best way to store squash in the fall & winter months?

• I live in Wisconsin and the different types of squash I planted are nearly ready to be brought in. I generally cook and freeze the squash. Is there a way to safely store my squash ...show more

• Answer:

  Summer squash can't be stored without outside preparation. All the winter squashes can easily be stored for 4-6 months in a cold cellar, or cool basement. The secret is to only use blemish free squash. The first thing is to cut them off the vine, and leave a 2" stem. If you don't, storing won't work. Then wipe them with a bleach solution to kill any fungus spores Have some melted paraffin ready, and dip the ENTIRE stem, and about 1" of the skin, into the paraffin, and repeat 3 times. This seals off all air from getting into the squash through the stem.. Pu them away, and use them as needed. When I did this, I'd check them all once a week just to make sure one hadn't started to mold. For some reason, I always used my last one on St. Paddy's Day