Description
25 Seeds per pack
Benning’s Green Tint (A.K.A. Farr’s Benning White Bush, Farr’s White Bush, Benning’s Bush, Benning’s)
Days to Maturity: 50–57 Days
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Botanical Name: (Cucurbita pepo)
Developed around 1896 by Charles N. Farr, a market gardener in Benning, Washington, D.C., this pale green patty pan squash quickly gained local popularity for its early maturity, creamy yet firm texture, and attractive appearance. Originally dubbed “Farr’s Benning White Bush,” it wasn’t until Farr sold his seed stock to F.W. Bolgiano in 1906 that the variety became more widely available. Bolgiano introduced it to the trade in 1907, and Farr’s brother Nimrod E. Farr continued working the family’s farm and supplied seed to Bolgiano’s for many years. Today, nearly all seed merchants list it as Benning’s Green Tint.
This heat-loving variety thrives in full sun and grows on vigorous yet compact 3–4′ bush plants, making it well-suited for small garden plots, larger market rows, or even container gardening. Its unique pale gray-green fruits are scallop-shaped and best harvested young, at 2–3 inches in diameter, when their flavor and texture are at their peak. Plants continue to produce regularly throughout the season, offering a steady supply of these tender, flavorful squash.
Benning’s Green Tint offers a delightfully nutty flavor, slightly richer than zucchini or crookneck squash. Its thin, tender skin and creamy flesh are excellent whether sautéed, grilled, baked, or used in casseroles and ratatouille. It’s also delicious when eaten raw, and the edible blossoms—mild and slightly floral—are perfect in salads or battered and fried. Due to its thin skins it doesn’t store well, it’s best enjoyed soon after harvest.
Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, Benning’s Green Tint is both a flavorful and nourishing addition to your garden!
Planting Instructions for Benning’s Green Tint Summer Squash Seeds
Benning’s Green Tint Summer Squash is a warm season crop, sensitive to frost and light freezes. Start Heirloom / Open Pollinated Summer Squash Seeds indoors 3-4 weeks. before last frost date or direct seed outdoors after danger of frost. Plant Heirloom / Open Pollinated Summer Squash in full sun. To direct seed, plant 6-8 seeds 1″ deep in 1′ diameter hills, thinning to 3 or 4 plants at set of true leaves. Or plant Summer Squash seeds in rows 1″ deep, 2′ apart. Keep rows and hills 6′ apart. Germination should occur in 5-10 days at 65-85°F. Keep soil just-damp during germination, or seeds may rot. In general Benning’s Green Tint Summer Squash have the best flavor and tenderness when picked young.
FAQ:
What is the historical or notable background of Benning's Green Tint?
Benning's Green Tint was developed around 1896 by Charles N. Farr, a market gardener from the Benning area of Washington, D.C. Originally called Farr’s Benning White Bush, the squash became popular locally for its early maturity and quality. Farr sold the seed stock to F.W. Bolgiano, who introduced it to the seed trade in 1907, helping spread its popularity beyond the region.
What is the flavor of Benning's Green Tint?
Benning's Green Tint has a delightfully nutty flavor, slightly richer than that of zucchini or crookneck squash. When picked young, its thin skin and creamy texture are at their best—making it a top choice for fresh eating and cooking.
What does Benning's Green Tint look like, and how does it grow?
This variety produces pale gray-green, scallop-shaped squash on compact yet vigorous bush plants that reach 3–4 feet across and grow 18–36 inches tall. It's ideal for smaller garden spaces, market rows, or even container planting.
How much can I expect to harvest, and when is the best time to pick Benning's Green Tint?
You can expect a steady yield throughout the season, with fruits ready to harvest in 50–57 days. For the best texture and flavor, pick them young—around 2–3 inches in diameter.
When is the best time to plant Benning's Green Tint?
Start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before your last expected frost date. For direct sowing, wait until all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures consistently stay above 65°F. Plant in a spot that receives full sun to support healthy early growth and strong yields.
What are the common culinary uses for Benning's Green Tint?
This squash is incredibly versatile—sauté, grill, bake, or add to casseroles and ratatouille. It’s also tasty raw, and the edible blossoms can be enjoyed in salads or battered and fried for a seasonal treat.
What’s the best way to store Benning's Green Tint after harvest?
Due to its thin skin, Benning’s Green Tint doesn’t store well. It’s best consumed shortly after harvest.
What nutrients does Benning's Green Tint provide?
Benning’s Green Tint is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber offering great nutritional value for the home table.
How does Benning's Green Tint perform over the course of the growing season?
Benning’s Green Tint is a reliable producer that continues to set fruit steadily throughout the summer. As long as it’s kept picked regularly, the plant will reward you with a continuous supply of tender squash from early to mid summer right through to the first frost
Marsha Sparks (verified owner) –
Planted
Trudy Wang (verified owner) –
ditto
Debra Ann Boling (verified owner) –
Mary Harrison (verified owner) –
5 star!