Growing Squash, also Crookneck, Pattypan, Summer squash

Cucurbita pepo : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S                  
      T T              
      P P              

(Best months for growing Squash in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 70°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 24 - 31 inches apart
  • Harvest in 7-8 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Sweet corn
  • Mother Hubbard squash
  • Pattypan squash

Start in individual pots then transfer when all risk of frost is past. For succession, later plantings can be straight into the ground. Fast maturing squash varieties for summer growing. Not suitable to store like pumpkins. Usually grown to pick when young and used without removing rind or seeds.

Zucchini/courgette (see under Z) is also a variety of squash

Protect from frost. Water well. Grow on well mulched, raised area. Shelter from strong winds.

A spray with a 5 gm/teasp Bicarbonate of Soda in 600 ml/pint of water will help slow powdery mildew when it appears.

Culinary hints - cooking and eating Squash

Use whole or sliced. Steam or fry.

Your comments and tips

Be the first to post a question or tip from the USA

Your problem suggests the female (fruiting) flowers have not been pollinated. This could be due to a lack of bees or other pollinating insects. The alternative is to hand pollinate by removing a male flower and its petals and brushing it over the female flower. This can also be done with a small, soft paint brush. Having it growing as a vine wouldn't make a difference, in fact it be beneficial to the plant as it would aid air circulation and reduce the chance of mildew forming. Trust this helps.

- John

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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