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 S S S S S
T T             T T T T
P                 P P P

(Best months for growing Squash in Australia - temperate regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed

September: Frost tender

  • 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

Your comments and tips

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18 Feb 17, kathy (Australia - temperate climate)
you need to pollinate them by hand
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18 Feb 17, John (Australia - temperate climate)
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.
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24 Jan 14, anthonecia (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
Can I grow pattypan in febuary thank you
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Showing 11 - 13 of 13 comments
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Hi, I planted Baby squash last season and they all produced beautiful flowers which then dropped off and no fruit was ever produced. I still have 1 plant growing profusely but it is also dropping its flowers and not producing fruit. I have a raised garden bed which consists of Culterra's professional potting soil mixed with last years winter leaves to which I add lawn cuttings from time to time. The raised bed drains well but faces west with full sun from 10h00 till 17h00. To protect the veggies from the hot afternoon sun I have shade netting covering the raised bed. All my various other veggies and herbs have done extremely well. I tend to water every 3rd day or so when no rain is about. I reside in Pretoria. I am also careful with which veggies I plant together. I also follow the principle of planting Marigolds and Basil in with the veggies. I keep peas, beans and cucumbers well away from onions. I grow potatoes but again well away from the raised bed. Any idea what is up with the baby squash? Your assistance will be appreciated.

- Dave

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