'Black Futsu' squash Seeds

Name: 'Black Futsu' squash Seeds
Brand: Gaia
Price: 4.99 CAD
Availability: InStock

Sale Sold out

open-pollinated heirloom seeds; certified organic Cucurbitaceae

Gaia

Cucurbita moschata

Common nameBlack Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin

FamilyCucurbitaceae

GenusCucurbita

Speciesmoschata

CultivarBlack Futsu

Typeopen-pollinated heirloom seeds; certified organic

Botanical nameCucurbita moschata

Reproducible seedsYes

Heirloom varietytrue

Quantity per packetApproximately 4 seeds

'Black Futsu' squash Seeds (Cucurbita moschata). This Japanese heirloom squash produces deeply ribbed bumpy fruit that cures from nearly black-green to a warm orange-buff colour. The tender skin can be eaten, and the flesh develops a rich nutty flavour during storage. Black Futsu suits roasting, tempura, pies, soups, and pickling. The packet contains approximately 4 organic seeds; Gaia does not identify them as certified organic. This is an annual open-pollinated variety. Kew recognizes Cucurbita moschata as the accepted botanical name in the Cucurbitaceae family and confirms its use as food. Its changing colour and sculptural shape also add ornamental interest to the autumn harvest. For practical seed starting, growing from seed succeeds best when the verified product depth, moisture and temperature guidance is followed.

Soak seed in warm water for up to 24 hours and lightly scarify the coat to improve germination. Start seed indoors three to four weeks before the last frost. Sow 1 inch deep and maintain the medium at 27 to 35°C; germination generally takes 7 to 10 days. Transplant only after all frost risk has passed and soil reaches approximately 25°C. Space plants 15 to 18 inches apart and rows 24 to 36 inches apart. Harden seedlings gradually for several days before planting outdoors. Move seedlings into bright light immediately after emergence to promote compact balanced growth, and water gently after transplanting without saturating the soil. Use the product details as a clear guide on how to start seeds while keeping the growing medium evenly moist, never saturated. For indoor seed starting, count back from local conditions and frost dates to decide when to start indoor seeds.

Grow Black Futsu in full sun and rich loose soil that remains evenly moist while draining well. Plants reach approximately 12 to 24 inches high and spread 36 to 48 inches. Maturity occurs after approximately 105 days. Harvest when colour is rich, the rind resists a fingernail, and the ground spot becomes cream, gold, or orange. Cut fruit with approximately 2 inches of stem, then cure in a warm dry place. Store cured fruit at 10 to 12°C with 55 to 75% relative humidity and good airflow. Gaia also identifies the young leaves and flowers as edible. Lift fruit from underneath so the protective stem remains attached during curing and storage.

In the garden

Exposure: Full sun
Life cycle: Warm-season annual
Hardiness: Frost-sensitive annual

Sowing guide

Sowing & germination

Sowing depth

25 mm (1 in)

Spacing / density

38 to 46 cm (15 to 18 in) between plants and 61 to 91 cm (24 to 36 in) between rows

Germination temperature

27 to 35 °C (80.6 to 95 °F).

Germination time

7 to 10 days

Sowing period

Start indoors three to four weeks before the last frost and transplant when soil reaches approximately 25°C.

Propagation

Seed propagation; open-pollinated variety

Seed scarification

Yes

Growing method

For Black Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin, follow these sowing and growing guidelines for the variety. Soak seed in warm water for up to 24 hours and lightly scarify the coat. Sow 1 inch deep in pots maintained at 27 to 35°C, three to four weeks before the last frost. After germination in 7 to 10 days, move seedlings into bright light. Harden them gradually and transplant into soil near 25°C after all frost risk has passed. Space plants 15 to 18 inches apart and rows 24 to 36 inches apart. Read the packet directions before starting and keep the label so the variety remains clearly identified throughout the season. Prepare a clean, loose, well-drained growing medium and moisten it before placing the seeds so they are not displaced by the first watering. Keep the seedbed evenly moist without standing water because excess moisture reduces air around developing roots. Move seedlings into bright light as soon as they emerge and rotate containers regularly to encourage balanced growth. Where several seedlings compete for the same space, thin carefully and retain the strongest plants without disturbing their roots. Before outdoor planting, gradually acclimatize young plants to wind, sunlight, and changing temperatures over several days. Follow the stated spacing so air can move between plants and each plant receives adequate light, water, and nutrients. This seed starting sequence supports reliable growing from seed while preserving the product-specific depth and temperature facts.

Soil and care

Soil & care

Minimum temperature

Frost sensitive; harvest fruit before damaging frost

Care level

Moderate

Watering

Maintain even moisture without standing water, especially during flowering and fruit development. Read the packet directions before starting and keep the label so the variety remains clearly identified throughout the season. Prepare a clean, loose, well-drained growing medium and moisten it before placing the seeds so they are not displaced by the first watering. Keep the seedbed evenly moist without standing water because excess moisture reduces air around developing roots.

Soil type

Loose soil rich in organic matter, evenly moist, and well drained Read the packet directions before starting and keep the label so the variety remains clearly identified throughout the season. Prepare a clean, loose, well-drained growing medium and moisten it before placing the seeds so they are not displaced by the first watering. Keep the seedbed evenly moist without standing water because excess moisture reduces air around developing roots.

Fertilization

Incorporate mature compost before planting and provide moderate balanced feeding during growth. Read the packet directions before starting and keep the label so the variety remains clearly identified throughout the season. Prepare a clean, loose, well-drained growing medium and moisten it before placing the seeds so they are not displaced by the first watering. Keep the seedbed evenly moist without standing water because excess moisture reduces air around developing roots.

Seasonal care

For Black Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin, adjust seasonal care to the plant’s actual growth cycle. Water at soil level, mulch after soil warms, and guide stems to maintain airflow. Monitor cucumber beetles, squash bugs, and powdery mildew. Reduce watering as maturity approaches and harvest before damaging frost. Read the packet directions before starting and keep the label so the variety remains clearly identified throughout the season. Prepare a clean, loose, well-drained growing medium and moisten it before placing the seeds so they are not displaced by the first watering. Keep the seedbed evenly moist without standing water because excess moisture reduces air around developing roots. Move seedlings into bright light as soon as they emerge and rotate containers regularly to encourage balanced growth. Where several seedlings compete for the same space, thin carefully and retain the strongest plants without disturbing their roots. Before outdoor planting, gradually acclimatize young plants to wind, sunlight, and changing temperatures over several days. Follow the stated spacing so air can move between plants and each plant receives adequate light, water, and nutrients. Water at soil level when the surface begins to dry, then adjust frequency for weather, drainage, and container volume. A light mulch can reduce splashing and moisture swings after the soil has warmed and plants are established. Inspect foliage, stems, and leaf undersides regularly so stress or pests can be addressed early. Feed moderately according to soil fertility; steady growth is preferable to excessive or unbalanced fertilizer applications.

Container growing

Recommended pot size

Very large container of at least 60 L for one plant

Growing Black Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin in a container requires suitable volume, drainage, and exposure. In-ground growing is preferable. A very large container of at least 60 L can work when drainage, watering, and room for the stems are adequate. Read the packet directions before starting and keep the label so the variety remains clearly identified throughout the season. Prepare a clean, loose, well-drained growing medium and moisten it before placing the seeds so they are not displaced by the first watering. Keep the seedbed evenly moist without standing water because excess moisture reduces air around developing roots. Move seedlings into bright light as soon as they emerge and rotate containers regularly to encourage balanced growth. Where several seedlings compete for the same space, thin carefully and retain the strongest plants without disturbing their roots. Before outdoor planting, gradually acclimatize young plants to wind, sunlight, and changing temperatures over several days. Follow the stated spacing so air can move between plants and each plant receives adequate light, water, and nutrients. Water at soil level when the surface begins to dry, then adjust frequency for weather, drainage, and container volume. A light mulch can reduce splashing and moisture swings after the soil has warmed and plants are established.

Size, flowering & harvest

Mature height

Approximately 30 to 61 cm (12 to 24 in)

Width / spread

Approximately 91 to 122 cm (36 to 48 in)

Flower color

Yellow

Foliage color

Green

Foliage type

Large rough lobed green leaves

Growth rate

Fast

Growth habit

Trailing vine

Edible parts

Skin and flesh of mature fruit, young leaves, and flowers

Fruiting

Ribbed black-green fruit curing to a warm orange-buff colour Read the packet directions before starting and keep the label so the variety remains clearly identified throughout the season. Prepare a clean, loose, well-drained growing medium and moisten it before placing the seeds so they are not displaced by the first watering. Keep the seedbed evenly moist without standing water because excess moisture reduces air around developing roots.

Days to maturity

Approximately 105 days

Harvest

Harvest when colour is rich, the rind resists a fingernail, and the ground spot becomes cream, gold, or orange. Cut with about 2 inches of stem, then cure warm and dry.

Garden associations

Companion plants & uses

Companion plants

Gaia traditionally suggests corn, pole beans, peas, radish, sunflower, parsley, celery, buckwheat, nasturtium, marigold, and oregano. Prioritize space and airflow. Read the packet directions before starting and keep the label so the variety remains clearly identified throughout the season. Prepare a clean, loose, well-drained growing medium and moisten it before placing the seeds so they are not displaced by the first watering. Keep the seedbed evenly moist without standing water because excess moisture reduces air around developing roots. Move seedlings into bright light as soon as they emerge and rotate containers regularly to encourage balanced growth.

Plants to avoid

Gaia traditionally recommends separating it from tomato, eggplant, potato, and pepper. This list is not absolute; prioritize rotation and spacing.

Garden use

In the garden, place Black Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin according to its habit, vigour, and access for harvest. Allow stems to trail through a sunny bed with 36 to 48 inches of spread. Deeply ribbed fruit changes from black-green to orange, creating a harvest that is both decorative and edible. Rest fruit on dry mulch to limit contact with wet soil. Read the packet directions before starting and keep the label so the variety remains clearly identified throughout the season. Prepare a clean, loose, well-drained growing medium and moisten it before placing the seeds so they are not displaced by the first watering. Keep the seedbed evenly moist without standing water because excess moisture reduces air around developing roots. Move seedlings into bright light as soon as they emerge and rotate containers regularly to encourage balanced growth. Where several seedlings compete for the same space, thin carefully and retain the strongest plants without disturbing their roots. Before outdoor planting, gradually acclimatize young plants to wind, sunlight, and changing temperatures over several days. Follow the stated spacing so air can move between plants and each plant receives adequate light, water, and nutrients. Water at soil level when the surface begins to dry, then adjust frequency for weather, drainage, and container volume.

Recipe idea

From garden to table

For four servings with Black Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin, harvest about 500 g of edible material at the recommended stage. Rinse under potable water, remove damaged sections, and use a clean cutting board. Cut the crop into even pieces. Warm 30 ml of oil in a skillet or preheat the oven to 200°C, then cook until tender and lightly browned. Season with 15 ml of lemon juice or mild vinegar, a small pinch of salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Serve with a cooked grain or pulses. Adjust cooking time to the size of the pieces and the maturity of the harvest. Eat only the parts correctly identified as edible. Refrigerate leftovers in a closed container within two hours and use them promptly. Serve promptly to preserve the texture and aromas that distinguish this harvest. Taste before adding more salt so the variety’s own character remains at the centre of the dish. Use a clean board and utensils, then refrigerate promptly any portion that will not be served immediately.

Frequently asked questions

How many 'Black Futsu' squash seeds are in the packet?

For Black Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin, the packet information states: Approximately 4 seeds. This wording preserves the commercial approximation when one is provided and helps plan the number of containers or the length of the row without turning an estimate into a guaranteed count. Keep the packet closed in a cool, dry, dark place until sowing time. Keep the label with the seedlings so the variety remains correctly identified throughout the season. Use clean containers and write the sowing date on a water-resistant label. Avoid exposing unused seed to moisture or large temperature swings.

How should I start 'Black Futsu' squash seeds in Canada?

For Black Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin, the stated sowing period is Start indoors three to four weeks before the last frost and transplant when soil reaches approximately 25°C. The recommended method is Seed propagation; open-pollinated variety, at a depth of 25 mm (1 in). Follow these product-specific directions and adjust timing to the average last-frost date in your area. Moisten the growing medium before placing the seed so the first watering does not displace it. Label every container and maintain even moisture without allowing standing water. Move seedlings into bright light as soon as they emerge to encourage balanced growth. Thin carefully when several seedlings compete for the same space. For seed starting, label the cultivar and use the stated sowing depth instead of a generic estimate.

How long do 'Black Futsu' squash seeds take to germinate?

For Black Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin, the stated germination period is 7 to 10 days, with a germination temperature of 27 to 35°C. Keep these conditions as steady as practical while allowing excess water to drain away. The temperature of the growing medium matters more than the surrounding air during this stage. Check moisture below the surface before watering again and avoid saturating the medium. Good air circulation helps young plants remain vigorous after emergence. Wait until the normal germination window has passed before assuming a seed will not emerge. When growing from seed, keep conditions stable for the full stated germination window before disturbing the mix.

Where should I grow 'Black Futsu' squash in the garden?

For Black Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin, the recommended exposure is Full sun. The stated spacing guideline is the detailed directions in the product record. For container growing, the product record recommends: Very large container of at least 60 L for one plant. Allow for the mature habit so neighbouring plants do not restrict light or access for harvest. Choose a site that is easy to water and leave enough room for air to circulate around the foliage. In a container, make sure several holes allow excess water to drain freely. A light mulch can steady moisture after the soil has warmed and plants are established. Match the site to the plant's verified light, soil and spacing requirements.

When and how should I harvest 'Black Futsu' squash?

For Black Futsu Japanese squash; Black Futsu pumpkin, the confirmed edible parts are: Skin and flesh of mature fruit, young leaves, and flowers. Harvest them at the stage stated in the product record, then sort the crop before preparation. Use only the parts correctly identified as edible for this plant. Use a clean tool and handle the harvest carefully to avoid unnecessary injury to the plant. Harvest in dry weather when practical and remove damaged portions promptly. Wash only the parts intended for the kitchen and refrigerate perishable produce promptly. Never eat a plant part whose identity or edibility is uncertain.