Squash are extremely versatile crops for the kitchen and are a relatively easy to grow vegetable (botanically a fruit), therefore making them popular amongst the food growing communities not only for their uses, their ease of growth but also because if bought from a store are relatively expensive. 

We have an extensive guide to all things squash, from harvest right through to cooking.  

Planting

Firstly we have planting. So the typical planting technique is to plant 6-8 seeds in the ground, approximately 1 inch below the surface and cover over. Spacing 90cm apart in rows. A squash plant will typically yield around 10-20 squash per vine, so don't over plant or you will have a glut. 

We find that squash plants do not like to have their roots disturbed, and in turn tend to plant all squash plants in soil blocks in the greenhouse; to reduce transplant shock when planting out. You can also plant directly into the ground, but you will get a slower start and risk of the seedlings getting eaten by pests such as slugs and snails.

When to plant

Sow in April - May indoors or May - June outdoors

Harvest in July - October

How to plant

Sow the seeds on their sides, with 3-8 seeds to per area. 2-3 if indoors 6-8 if outdoors. If growing outdoors cover with plastic, jars or cloches to keep the soil warm.

Stages of growth

What type of squash are there?

There are two different types of squash, summer and winter. Although don't let the names fool you as you plant winter squash in spring the same as summer squash! The reason for the names being because summer squash has thinner rinds to winter squash, and in turn will not keep for long periods of time; where as winter squash will keep throughout the winter months. 

Types of summer squash

Summer squash take up less room than winter squash, due to them being bushier; but they will still spread up to 5ft in every direction. 

• Zucchini (courgette)
• Crookneck 
• Cousa
• Patty Pan
• Tatume
• Tromboncino

Types of winter squash

Winter squash, named because their tough, thick rinds allow them to store well throughout winter; and spread up to 15ft in every direction. 

• Spaghetti
• Kabocha
• Pumpkin
• Dumpling
• Hubbard
• Butternut
• Buttercup
• Acorn

Where to plant squash

Squash plants grow extremely large, up to 15ft in each direction, so it is advised that they are grown in the ground with lots of spacing. If you don't have the space you can train them to grow up a trellis or fence, just bear in mind that squash plants are heavy so support will be required once the fruits start growing. 

How to care for the squash

Before transplanting out make sure that the ground is prepared and that compost is used. Do not plant too close together or you will risk lower yields are more risk of rot. 

Watering

Make sure you keep the ground moist at all times, squash plants are thirsty. You can create a moat around the base of the plant, this will catch the water and ensure that the roots of the plant get all of the water. 

You can also sink a bottle alongside each plant, with holes in the bottom, and water directly into it. This will ensure that the roots get the water and none is wasted. 

You do not want to over water the ground or the leaves, this will lead to rotting or mould. 

Pruning

Although not required it can be beneficial to cut off rotting or mildew ridden leaves so the plant focuses it's energy on healthy leaves and fruit. This will also improve airflow. 

Problem solving

There aren't that many problems to encounter when growing squash, if you follow the steps above you should have very little to worry about. The two biggest concerns with squash plants are:

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is quite common, and not detrimental to your plant at all, but can be unsightly and will cause your plant a bit of stress. 

To control mildew keep the soil moist and / or grow in cooler locations, not in full sun. 

Mould

Mould is common in damp and humid conditions, for a lot of plants. The best way to prevent mould is by ensuring your plants are not overcrowded and there is sufficient ventilation.

Should you get mould, which will look pale or discoloured to begin with, remove all damaged plants or parts of the plant to ensure it doesn't spread onto the rest of the plant or your crop.

Harvesting 

Pick summer squash when it's small and tender. Regular picking of fruit encourages more fruit to grow.

Pick winter squash when the skin can't be pierced by your thumbnail and the stem is completely dry and it will come away from the fruit on it's own. Winter squash will require hardening off in the sun for a week or in the greenhouse. 

Eating and storing 

Winter squash will store for the majority of the season, as long as you pick it when it's fully matured. Summer squash needs eating sooner as the skins are soft and they will not keep.

Winter Squash needs to be left out in the sun to cure for up to 10 days, once cured store them in a cool ventilated area between 10-15 DegC.

FAQ's

My squash isn't turning what do I do?

If your running out of time in the season and your squash isn't quite ready yet there's no harm in picking it early and letting it ripen on your windowsill - exactly the same as tomatoes! Get your orange pumpkins without having to wait. Give it a go you won't be disappointed.

My recipes

Courgette and tomato risotto

Products we recommend

Soil blocker

 

 

 

 

 

Squash / Sprout / Seeding icons by Icons8