How does frost affect squash harvesting?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Frost kills squash plants and fruits in a matter of hours. Temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) cause ice crystals to form in plant tissues. This then ruptures cell walls and destroys tissue immediately. Squash turns to mush and is no longer usable. I lost a whole crop when frost unexpectedly hit one night.
Summer squash is destroyed by frost. Tender plants die immediately, and the fruits turn clear and slimy. A light frost can also cause irreversible damage. Winter squash vines will collapse, but the fruits can survive brief exposure. Never have any squash unprotected when frost is anticipated.
Pre-Frost Preparation
- Monitor forecasts: Check temperature predictions nightly in fall
- Harvest readiness: Identify mature squash needing immediate harvest
- Protective gear: Keep frost blankets and stakes ready near garden
Emergency Measures
- Cover plants: Drape blankets over hoops 12 inches above plants
- Microclimate creation: Use water barrels to radiate heat overnight
- Wind protection: Erect temporary barriers against cold winds
Post-Frost Actions
- Morning inspection: Check plants before temperatures rise above freezing
- Salvage harvest: Pick all undamaged fruits immediately
- Damage assessment: Discard mushy or translucent squash
Monitoring forecasts becomes important in the fall. Keep an eye on your local forecast using a trustworthy source. Look at the predicted low temperatures and wind chill factor. Remember, frost can form at 36°F with clear skies and no wind. I use several weather apps to check for accuracy.
Protective covers provide transient protection. Frost blankets can be suspended on a framework, giving airspace. Never allow plastic to come into contact with your plants. Water-filled heat sinks are placed around plants to radiate heat at night. Using any of these measures can provide 2-5°F protection in the event of frost.
Utilize these strategies to protect from frost damage. Unplanned cold spells will not damage your vegetables. I now protect my squash until I expect hard freezes. I saved my crop three times last season using these strategies!
Read the full article: When to Harvest Squash: Complete Grower's Guide
