Welcome to our complete guide on squash available in St. Marys County MD! St. Mary’s County, Maryland, near the Chesapeake Bay, is becoming known for its fresh, high-quality squash. In the last five years, farmers have grown 37% more squash, according to the St. Mary’s County Agricultural Extension Office.
The county’s rich soil and mild weather are perfect for growing zucchini, yellow squash, and butternut squash. These vegetables are important to the local farming community. They help the area gain a reputation for quality produce.
In this guide will explain everything you need to know about squash available in St. Marys County MD – from how it’s grown to the many ways you can enjoy it on your plate.
Types of Squash Available in St. Marys County MD
St. Mary’s County, Maryland, grows many types of squash, showing both farming tradition and new ideas. The St. Mary’s County Agricultural Extension Office has found over 12 different squash varieties grown in the area.
Summer Squash: Zucchini and Yellow Crookneck
Summer squash, like zucchini and yellow crookneck, grow well in the county’s warm, humid weather and are sold at farmers’ markets from June to September.
Winter Squash: Popular Varieties
Winter squash, such as butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash, are becoming more popular. Farmers have increased winter squash production by 45% over the past ten years, with butternut squash being especially well-suited to the soil.
Specialty and Heirloom Squash Varieties
Specialty squashes, like the rare Hubbard, Delicata, and a locally grown Green Striped Cushaw, are prized by small farmers. These squashes help preserve unique seed varieties and promote farming diversity.
Supporting Culinary Preferences and Nutritional Needs
The wide range of squash grown in St. Mary’s County meets different tastes and health needs in the local community.
Best Farms and Markets for Squash in St. Marys County MD
In St. Mary’s County, Maryland, there are many great farms that grow squash. These farms offer a variety of squash, both summer and winter types.Small farms in the area generate about $1.2 million each year from squash and gourd production.
Raley’s Produce Farm in Leonardtown is known for its zucchini, yellow squash, butternut squash, and acorn squash. They have extended hours, so customers can easily buy fresh produce.
Best Farms for Squash in St. Marys County MD
Raley’s Produce Farm
Address:Raley’s Produce Farm, 22915 Three Notch Rd, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Opening Hours:Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Phone:(301) 475-2991
Forrest Hall Farm
Address:Forrest Hall Farm, 22515 Three Notch Rd, California, MD 20619
Opening Hours:Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone:(301) 862-1459
Friendly Hall Farm
Address:20659 Mechanicsville Rd, Mechanicsville, MD 20659
Opening Hours:Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone:(301) 884-5846
Kate Chandler Farm
Address:Kate Chandler Farm, 22010 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park, MD 20653
Opening Hours:Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone:(301) 862-1942
Best Markets for Squash in St. Marys County MD
Farmer’s markets in St. Mary’s County sell fresh squash, like zucchini, yellow squash, and butternut squash. It’s a great way to support local farmers and buy fresh produce.
St. Mary’s Market Place
Address: California, MD, United States
Opening Hours: Open daily, closes at 10 PM
Phone: +1 301-737-2518
Harris Teeter
Address:California, MD, United States
Opening Hours:Open daily: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Customer Service Phone:Toll-Free: 1-800-432-6111
Where can I buy organic squash in St. Mary’s County?
You can buy organic squash in St. Mary’s County at these places:
Sassafras Creek Farm
Located in Leonardtown, MD, this farm offers seasonal vegetables and fruits all year. They grow fresh and healthy food.
Address: 23217 Bayside Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650
Phone: (301) 247-1002
Home Grown Farm Market
This market has many fresh, local foods, including organic squash.
Address: 21078 Three Notch Road, Lexington Park, MD 20653
Phone: (301) 863-4000
St. Mary’s City Farmers Market
This market has vendors selling certified organic and pesticide-free squash.
Address: 29133 Thompson Corner Rd, Mechanicsville, MD 20659
Phone: (301) 872-5003
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Seasonal Availability of Squash in St. Marys County MD
St. Mary’s County has a great squash-growing season from late spring to early winter. Summer squash like zucchini and yellow squash are available from June to September. Winter squash, such as butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash, are ready to harvest from September to November.
Storage and Availability: These squashes can be stored in cool, dark places for 3-6 months, so people can enjoy them even after the harvest. In the winter, local markets get squash from places like Florida and California. Some people freeze or can squash to enjoy it all year.
Best Storage Practices: To store winter squash, keep it in a well-ventilated area, away from sunlight. Butternut squash is great for storage and can stay fresh for up to 6 months.
Benefits of Buying Local Squash
Buying local squash in St. Mary’s County has many great benefits. The squash is very fresh, picked at the right time, and delivered quickly, so it tastes better and has more nutrients. Buying local helps farmers and supports the local economy, with much of the money staying in the community.
Local squash also helps the environment because it travels less, which reduces pollution and waste. It also supports sustainable farming, which is good for the land and local wildlife. Buying from local farmers helps build strong community connections and keeps farming traditions alive in St. Mary’s County.
How to Select and Store Fresh Squash
When buying fresh squash in St. Mary’s County, choose squash that feels heavy and firm with smooth, bright skin. Summer squash should have a shiny surface and no soft spots, and smaller ones are often sweeter. For winter squash like butternut or acorn, pick ones with hard, matte skin and no cracks. The stem should be firm, and the color should be even.
Store summer squash in the fridge for up to 5 days in a plastic bag. Winter squash should be kept in a cool, dark place and can last for months. Don’t wash squash before storing, and keep them away from apples. Check them often for any soft spots or damage. Use winter squash with small blemishes quickly.
Recipes and Uses for Squash
Grilled ZucchiniGrilled zucchini is a simple side dish, seasoned with olive oil, salt, and herbs, then grilled for a healthy, flavorful bite.
Butternut Squash SoupButternut squash soup is a warm winter dish made by roasting squash, onions, and garlic, then blending them with vegetable broth for a creamy soup.
Spaghetti Squash Pasta AlternativeSpaghetti squash can replace pasta, with roasted squash strands topped with marinara sauce for a low-calorie meal.
Other Creative UsesYou can also add diced squash to omelets, blend zucchini into smoothies, use butternut squash in risottos, or make zucchini bread for a sweet treat.
Cooking TipsLocal chefs suggest trying different cooking methods like roasting, grilling, steaming, and sautéing to explore new flavors and textures.
Events and Festivals Celebrating Squash in St. Mary’s County
St. Mary’s County holds many fun events that celebrate squash and local farming. One big event is the Annual St. Mary’s County Agricultural Fair in August, where farmers show off their best squash in different categories, like size and quality.
The Leonardtown Farmers Market Harvest Festival happens in late September. At this event, squash is the star with cooking demos, tastings, and chefs sharing squash recipes.
In October, the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission hosts the “Local Harvest Celebration”. Farmers from St. Mary’s, Charles, and Calvert counties compete with their best squash. This event also offers workshops on growing squash, eating it, and using it in cooking.
Smaller events like the “Farm to Table” gatherings also feature squash. At Sotterley Plantation’s “Autumn Harvest Day”, visitors can enjoy squash activities, like decorating pumpkins and squash, cooking demos, and buying fresh squash from farmers.
These festivals help support local farmers, teach about farming, and keep the county’s farming traditions alive. They also offer fun and learning for everyone!
Conclusion
St. Mary’s County, Maryland, is known for its farming and growing many types of squash. Local farmers grow both summer and winter squash in areas like Leonardtown and St. Mary’s City. These squash not only feed the community but also help the local economy.
The county is dedicated to sustainable farming, which helps farmers grow a variety of crops and offer fresh squash at farmers’ markets. Squash in St. Mary’s County is more than just food; it connects people to the land and celebrates the area’s farming history. The county shows how farming can grow and thrive, with squash as a symbol of this success.
FAQs
Is squash available year-round in St. Mary’s County?
Summer squash is available from June to September. Winter squash can be stored and found from September to early spring. Markets and grocery stores bring in squash from other places during off-peak months.
What is the most popular squash variety grown locally?
Zucchini and yellow summer squash are the most popular summer squash. Butternut squash is the most popular winter variety in St. Mary’s County.
Can I pick my own squash at local farms?
Yes, farms like Green Fields Farm and Seventh Street Farm let you pick your own squash during the growing season. Call ahead to check availability and times.
Are there any CSA programs offering squash in St. Mary’s County?
Yes, the Southern Maryland Agricultural Cooperative offers CSA programs with squash. Farms like Combs Family Farm and Sotterley Plantation Farm also have seasonal share programs with squash.