Organic Red Kuri Winter (Hokkaido) Squash Seeds - Cucurbita maxima

Organic Heirloom Non-GMO Open-Pollinated Red Kuri  (Hokkaido) Winter Squash Seeds

The Red Kuri winter squash, also known as Orange Hokkaido or Uchiki Kuri, traces its origins to Kanazawa, Japan, where it has been carefully cultivated and refined over generations. Its lineage is believed to descend from Hubbard-type squash introduced to Japan in the late 19th century, which Japanese farmers thoughtfully selected and adapted to their climate, cuisine, and cultural preferences. Over time, this intentional breeding resulted in traits such as a smaller, more tender squash with exceptional sweetness, smooth texture, and reliable storage qualities.

Having been selectively bred by Japanese farmers for centuries, the Red Kuri squash embodies a deep agricultural tradition rooted in flavor, resilience, and nourishment. It remains a staple in Japanese cooking and has since become beloved worldwide for its culinary versatility and ease of growth.

With its perfect texture and delicate, nutty-sweet flavor, this winter squash is a beautiful and reliable addition to the garden. The Red Kuri features vibrant red-orange skin and flesh with a distinctive teardrop shape, and is excellent in purées, soups, pies, and curries. This high-yielding variety is both productive and deeply satisfying in the kitchen.

Sow seeds after the danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Plant in full sun, spacing hills 3–5 feet apart, with 2–3 seeds per hill. Thin to the strongest plant once established. Red Kuri thrives in rich, well-drained soil and benefits from consistent watering, especially during flowering and fruit development. Vines will spread generously, so allow ample space or train along the edges of your garden. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvest when the skin has fully deepened in color and is hard, and the stem begins to dry. Cut fruits from the vine, leaving a short length of stem attached to extend storage life. Cure in a warm, dry place for 7–10 days to enhance flavor and longevity. When properly cured and stored in a cool, dry space, Red Kuri squash will keep for several months, making it an excellent staple for winter meals.

Seed Profile

• Organic

• Heirloom

• Non-GMO

• Annual

• Sun: Full

• Direct Sow: Plant after the last frost

• Seed Count: 25

• Days to Maturity: 90 - 95

• Plant Spacing: 24” - 36”

Gardener Tips

Sow seeds after the danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Plant in full sun, spacing hills 3–5 feet apart, with 2–3 seeds per hill. Thin to the strongest plant.

Once established. Red Kuri thrives in rich, well-drained soil and benefits from consistent watering, especially during flowering and fruit development. Vines will spread generously, so allow ample space or train along the edges of your garden. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Read our blog post on The Power of Mulching

Each plant produces approximately 2 - 3 fruit per plant. Provides high yields in cooler and short seasons and fruits are 2 - 5 lbs. 

Harvesting Tips

Fruit will be ripe once the shell is hard, the skin has fully deepened in color and the stem begins to dry. Cut fruits from the vine with clean shears, leaving a short length of stem attached to extend storage life.

Cure in a warm, dry place for 7–10 days to enhance flavor and longevity.

When properly cured and stored in a cool, dry space, Red Kuri squash will keep for several months, making it an excellent staple providing delicious nutrient dense meals all winter long!

Seed Saving

Take a look at our Youtube video on Saving Squash Seeds.