Winter squash

Just when I think I can not eat another serving of ratatouille, the butternut squash looks like it may soon be ready to pick. I planted Waltham Butternut, a popular variety that has yellow skin, an orange fleshy pulp and a sweet nutty flavor. In order to grow winter squash you need the usual rich, well drained soil and plenty of water, but also lots of room for the long vines and large leaves to ramble. You also need patience as it takes a long time for the squash to grow and mature.  Butternut squash can be harvested any time that the color has gone from light green to a pale, soft yellow, but it should be picked before frost. Butternut squash makes a nice soup, but I prefer to peel and chop it and roast it in the oven with a little olive oil, butter, salt, pepper, and a little brown sugar to taste.