Planting and Growing Guide for Squash (Cucurbita pepo)
Description
Squash are Cucurbits and belong to the same family courgettes, zucchini, marrow and cucumbers. They are grown in a similar way. Squash are frost tender and require warm weather to grow and produce good size fruit. There are many varieties with various sizes and skin colors. Squash need regular feeding and reliable watering. Sow in small pots or deep seed trays and grow indoors, planting out, after 4-6 weeks after the last frosts. They can be sown directly into the garden after the last frosts. Grow on raised mounds of soil with a heavy covering of compost. When sowing the seeds align them vertically and plant about 2 cm (1 inch) deep to stop the seeds rotting. Allow about 75–90 cm (2-3 feet) between plants as they can grow quite large. Feed the plants regularly once the fruits start to develop.
Harvest at the end of the season. Squash cannot be stored like pumpkins. Usually grown to pick when young and used without removing rind or seeds. Can be cooked whole by boiling or steaming or cooking in the microwaves oven. Can be sliced, or halved and then steamed, boiled or lightly fried. They are delicious baked. They can be used in soups and stews.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seed in small pots or deep seed trays as Squash are frost tender. Sow seeds about 20 mm (1 inch) deep. Sow seed directly into the soil after the last frost.
Space between plants: Space plants about 60-80 cm (24-30 inches) apart. Space rows 90 cm (3 feet) apart. Plant in raised mounds
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 7-8 weeks, but smaller fruits can be continually picked as the plants grow.
Hints:
- Grows well in full sun, or in partial shade in hot areas.
- Does best in rich, well-drained soils with a covering of mulch to stop weeds and to retain soil moisture.
- Frost sensitive and needs extra watering at the base of the plants in hot dry weather
- Plant in batches on mounds, every 3-4 weeks for a continuous supply.
- Feed regularly and keep the plants growing strongly to produce a good harvest of squash.
- They prefer neutral to slightly acid soils (pH 6 to 7)
- Control powdery mildew by not watering the leaves. Bicarbonate or soda solution also helps. Dig a small hole next to the plant. Fill with compost and pour water into this hole to ensure water gets to the roots of the plant while avoiding wetting the stems or leaves
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!