Related to cucumber and melons, Squash can be divided into Summer and Winter types.

Summer varieties grow very quickly, have abundant yields and produce early crops. Seems everyone has more zucchinis than they need in August.

Winter varieties typically grow a little slower but come in more shapes, sizes with deliciously sweet flavours plus they can be “cured” for winter storage.

How to Grow: Squash are a hot weather crop. They need full sun and deep, rich, well drained, organic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5 and enjoy copious amounts of water. Before planting, work in lots of compost. Sow seed directly outdoors in late May to early June, planting 2.5 cm (1”) deep in hills 2.4 m (8’) apart with 4-6 seeds per hill.

After germination, thin to 3 plants per hill. Seed can be started indoors 3 weeks before the plant out date. Squash do not transplant well. If starting indoors, use paper or fibre pots that can be set directly in the soil. Protect mature squash from frost and cold temperatures. All squash grow male flowers first, then female flowers. Incomplete pollination will result in misshaped fruit or none at all.