What is the secret to growing abundant squash?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.To grow squash successfully, it is essential to keep the plants open to air circulation, especially vining plants. Allow 3-4 feet between hills for vining squash. For bush types, allow 2 feet in all directions. Good air circulation will help prevent fungal diseases and help the sun reach all the leaves.
Pollination Mastery
- Hand pollinate daily at dawn with a soft brush
- Transfer pollen from male to female flowers before 10 AM
- Identify females by small fruit bases behind blossoms
Moisture Control
- Install drip lines delivering 1 inch water weekly
- Mulch with straw to retain soil moisture
- Avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew spread
Pest Vigilance
- Inspect leaf undersides daily for eggs
- Apply neem oil at first pest sighting
- Use row covers during vulnerable growth stages
Fertilize at key growing times with organic fertilizers. Use a fish emulsion while seedlings are still tiny, then switch to a phosphorus-rich bone meal once they are beginning to flower. If properly timed, your yield should double; if you aren't following the right schedule, your crops could become sickly. Soil tests will indicate what to apply and where.
Use companion planting by interplanting radishes with nasturtium to repel squash bugs. Support corn with vining in small areas. Planting healthy plants helps prevent pest problems; therefore, this method requires less chemical treatment.
Harvest continuously to encourage production. Pick summer squash every 48 hours. Leave winter types until stems harden, store winter varieties at 55°F (13°C) after they have been cured. Abundant harvests reward consistent care.
Master these techniques for overflowing harvests. Start with proper spacing and hand pollination. Build on pest prevention and feeding. Your garden will produce more squash than you expect.
Read the full article: How to Grow Squash Successfully at Home
