Can you pick squash too early?

If you pick squash too young, you will run into a host of different issues. The first and foremost of which is that summer squash develops a bitter taste when it is immature; for example, winter squash remains starchy instead of sweetening with harvest. Picking immature squash also significantly decreases storage quality. I learned this firsthand when my immature butternuts rotted within weeks of harvest.

Summer squash is the vegetable that suffers most from being harvested too early. Six-inch zucchini have little flavor development and are more watery with an unpleasant, sharp taste. The seeds are undeveloped yet continue to affect the texture. As a general rule, wait for glossy skin and firm flesh.

Winter squash should fully mature on the vine. Butternut squash harvested before the tan color develops is starchy. Acorn squash picked early does not have the nutty flavor it should have. Both types need hardening stems and dull skin to finish. Harvesting too early affects their storage capacity.

The Reward Is Patience - you will harvest perfect squash. Wait until the squash is fully mature before harvest. Summer squash must be checked daily, while winter squash, depending on size and variety, only needs to be checked weekly. In return, your garden will yield its delicious and sweet squash, making the extra care worthwhile!

Use these practices again when the growing season returns. Pay close attention to growth stages and resist the impulse to harvest early; your squash will taste better and last longer. I am now getting six months out of my properly harvested butternut squash due to these practices.

Read the full article: When to Harvest Squash: Complete Grower's Guide