Butternut squash is an orange-fleshed squash, celebrated for its versatility and sweet, nutty flavor.

Many people especially in Kenya consider butternut squash a vegetable, but butternut squash is technically a fruit.

Butternut squash is not only tasty but also packs a punch of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants and makes a great addition to many sweet and savory recipe.

In this article you will get to know about everything related to butternut squash in Kenya, from farming, profits including its nutrition and health.

Varieties Of Butternut Squash In Kenya:

In Kenya today, there are various varieties of butternut that can be grown in the country.

Below is the list of butternut squash Varieties;

• Atlas F1 (most popular in Kenya)
• Early butternut F1
• Agronaut hybrid
• Autumn glow.

Nutritional Benefits Of Butternut Squash:

Butternut squash has a lot of nutritional benefits that are important.

These include benefits such as;

• it’s a source of protein (seeds of butternut dried)
• butternut is a rich source of vitamin A and C
• helps in improving digestion
• Contains minerals such as potassium and manganese

Conditions For Growing Butternut In Kenya:

• Altitudes ranging from 0-1700.
• Good sunlight.
• Well drained soil with pH of 5.5-7.5.
• Temperature range of between 21- 28°c.
• Good spacing for the vines growth

Farming Butternut In Kenya:

Butternut squash farming in Kenya is a profitable business depending on various factors such as the type of butternut squash, market and time of harvesting before dispatch.

Butternut matures after 80-90 days but this is depending on the variety of the fruit, for example a variety like Waltham takes 90-100 days to mature