9/5/2023 0 Comments Squash varietiesSummer squash can be stored cool, moist areas up to two weeks. The winter varieties should not be picked until well matured. The summer varieties should be gathered before the seeds have fully ripened and while the rinds are still soft. Squash that is overly ripe becomes hard, seedy, and loses its flavor. You should harvest squash frequently to encourage more production and pick the fruits while still small. Harvesting SquashĬheck daily when harvesting squash plants, as these crops grow quickly, especially in hot weather. It helps to mulch squash plants generously mulching maintains moisture and reduces weeds. Be sure to harden the plants off prior to planting in the garden to lessen the shock of transplanting and wait until all danger of frost has passed. ![]() You can plant 3 to 4 seeds per pot and thin to 2 plants later. Start seeds in peat pots, but be sure the squash seedlings do not suffer root disturbances during transplanting. Squash can be started indoors 3 to 4 weeks prior to the planting date. Hills and rows of summer squash should be approximately 3 to 4 feet (1 m.) apart, while winter squash should be spaced approximately 4 to 5 feet (1-1.5 m.) apart with 5 to 7 feet (1.5-2 m.) between rows and with the hills spaced about 3 feet (1 m.) apart. ![]() Usually, only 4 to 5 seeds per hill is plenty, thinning down to 2 or 3 plants per hill once the seedlings have developed their true leaves. Sow seeds only after any danger of frost has ended and the soil has warmed. Summer and winter squash are commonly planted in hills about 1 inch (2.5 cm.) deep. Squash can be sown directly into the garden or started indoors. Organic matter can be added by incorporating compost into the soil as well as decomposed manure. Summer and winter squash grow best in fertile, well-drained soil containing high amounts of organic matter in areas of full sun. The use of well composted material mixed into the soil is recommended. Squash plants require full sun, fertile soil, and sufficient moisture. Winter varieties include:Īs with other vine-growing crops, squash prefers heat, but it is often somewhat hardier than melons or cucumbers. ![]() Winter squash is often categorized according to fruit size and there are a number of sizes, shapes, and colors available. Most winter varieties of squash are vine plants and will spread throughout the garden. There are several types of summer squash which come in a variety of shapes and colors. These types of plants do not spread as the vine types do. Summer varieties of squash are large and bushy. There are two types of squash varieties: summer and winter. Before you grow squash, be sure you know which type you have and plan your garden accordingly. There are many varieties of squash, most of which are vine plants there are a number of bush types as well, however. This crop is fairly easy to grow and establishes itself quite well in most regions of the United States. Squash is among the most commonly grown plant in the vegetable garden.
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