![]() This indicates that air is not able to circulate around the plants and their leaves. When plants are overwatered and too close together, they can develop a whitish, powdery mold. Pests and DiseasesĮven with these precautions in mind, there are some additional common problems that squash growers may encounter. Since they share some of the same diseases and pests, this helps reduce risk to your plants. ![]() You will also want to avoid a soil plot that recently housed melons or cucumber. Crop rotation is key not only for replenishing nutrients in the soil, but also for diminishing the risk of certain infestations and ailments. It is very important that you never plant summer squash in the same area you did the year before. Some like to use fish emulsion as well, although I find that soil that has been mixed well with compost usually has the right mixture of nutrients for a good harvest. Many gardeners have had good luck with a complete fertilizer mix applied at 50% strength. Hot sun paired with wet leaves can stress the plants, and cause leaf burn. If you do have to water in the heat of the day, use a soaker hose. Since these plants should be grown in an area of full sun, I make sure to water in the early morning at the base of plants, so that the leaves don’t get wet. Fortunately, mold isn’t as likely in extreme drought conditions! Light and Heat It’s still helpful to avoid watering at night to avoid mold and root rot, but during particularly hot times this may become a necessity to keep your plants alive, depending on your schedule. Water for the first time in the morning, before the heat of the day has set in, and again in the afternoon if necessary. Squash loves water, and since it will start getting very warm during their peak season, it’s important to watch for “wilt.”Īs the leaves become droopy during the day, it is a sign that they need watering – even if the soil seems moist. There are also some additional considerations to remember when looking for optimal yields: Irrigation Squash needs heat, water, and sunlight to thrive. Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart, allowing plenty of room for the vines to spread out.Plant seeds 2 inches apart and leave 3 feet of space between rows.Double plant seeds to ensure at least one per site germinates.Allow no more than 2-3 feet between plants.Sow seeds ½-inch deep in closely spaced hills or rows.Some have successfully gotten away with a bit colder temperature by using black plastic mulch or row covers.īush and vining types will have slightly different planting directions. Whether you direct sow or transplant, however, make sure the change of frost has safely passed in your growing zone, and the soil temp is at 65-70☏ or higher. Squash are forgiving, however, and have done well in less-than-ideal acidity for generations. alkaline), many extension agencies have recommended a pH of between 6 and 6.5. While I remember being told that summer squash thrives in a sweet soil (i.e. Whether you direct sow or start your seeds indoors, a suitable garden plot will ensure a more abundant harvest. I have never had a problem giving away the excess! Planting Summer Squash in the Perfect Place The beauty of these plants is that everyone seems to enjoy them. If you enjoy young and tender squash, plant a few extras to make sure you have enough young fruits for a full recipe, especially in the early weeks. Summer squash, on the other hand, reaches maturity when it still has a softer peel, small seeds, and a texture that’s more crispy than starchy. Unlike summer squash, these grow sweeter as they age and have starchier flesh. Exclude them from young plantings with row covers.Both are structurally the same, but winter squash tastes best when allowed to mature to the point of having hardened skin and large seeds. Squash bugs and squash vine borers can be serious pests. Use a knife to cut fruits from the plants. Harvest summer squash when they are young and tender, before the rinds begin to harden. Different types of summer squash help pollinate one another because they are of the same species. ![]() Keep plantings small, to fewer than a dozen plants. Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area. Also may be started from seedlings started indoors or purchased at stores. Sow seeds 1 inch deep in spring, either in rows or hills. Rows: 1' 11" (60cm) with 1' 11" (60cm) row gap (minimum) Sow and Plant Single Plants: 1' 11" (60cm) each way (minimum) Positionĭrench plants with a liquid fertilizer when they begin to blossom and set fruits. Well-drained soil enriched with plenty of compost.
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