How to Store Winter Squash
Winter squash keeps much longer than summer squash because of its hard rind and mature harvest stage. Good storage depends on curing and on avoiding cold injury.
Best storage conditions
Store winter squash around 50 to 55 F. Relative humidity should be moderate, roughly 50 to 70 percent, so rinds stay dry while fruit do not shrivel too quickly. Do not refrigerate whole winter squash for long periods because low temperatures can injure quality. Refrigerate cut squash promptly.
How long it keeps
Most winter squash keeps 2 to 6 months, depending on type and how mature it was at harvest. Acorn types usually store less time than butternut, hubbard, or kabocha types.
Storage methods
Cure squash in a warm, airy place for about 10 days or as conditions allow to harden the rind and heal small scratches. Then store in a single layer on shelves or in shallow boxes in a cool room. A pantry is acceptable only if it stays fairly cool. Do not pile fruit where air cannot move around them.
Freezing & preserving
Winter squash can be frozen as cubes or puree and can also be dried in some forms. For canning, follow USDA or NCHFP recommendations because not every squash puree or mash is suitable for home canning.
Tips
Leave a short stem attached when harvesting to help reduce decay. Use fruit with cuts or broken stems first because they rarely store well.
General home-storage guidance. For home canning and preserving safety, follow USDA and National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP) guidelines. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.