Winter Squash Frost Tolerance?

Question

Can Winter squash tolerate a light frost out in the garden?? I covered them with sheets and straw. But they had little dark spots on them. Will this harm the squash?? Will it still store well??

Answer 1

A light frost should not harm winter squashes themselves, but may harm or kill the vines. They should still store well. A hard freeze will damage or ruin the squash, so harvest them if any is predicted. Here is more information:
http://extension.illinois.edu/gardenerscorner/issue_01/fall_04_04.cfm