Quick Overview
Squash , a various anddelectable calabash , is anessential additionto any garden . Whether you ’re a seasoned gardener or a budding partisan , grow crush fromfresh seedsis a rewarding experience that yields bountiful harvests . This comprehensive guide will lead you through every footmark of the summons , empowering you to train this nutritious and flavorful veggie in your own backyard .
Selecting the Right Squash Variety
The first step ingrowing squashfromfresh seedsis selecting the right form . Consider your climate , space , anddesired harvesting . pop squash rackets miscellany let in :
Preparing the Seeds
1 . dry out the seeds : circulate thefresh seedson apaper toweland allow them to dry for a few days.2 . Soak the ejaculate : Soak the seed inwarm waterfor 24 - 48 60 minutes to cushion theseed coatand enhance sprouting .
Starting Seeds Indoors
If you live in acooler climateor need a promontory start on thegrowing season , you’re able to start squash source indoors.1 . filling aseed tray : Fill a source tray with seed - starting mix and moisten it thoroughly.2 . Sow the seeds : Sow the germ 1/2inch deepand 2 inches apart.3 . get across with soil : Cover theseeds lightlywith soil andgently pressdown.4 . cater passion : Place the seed tray in awarm location(70 - 80 ° F ) and keep the soil moist .
Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors
When the seedling have developed their first gear up oftrue leaves , it ’s clock time to transplant them outdoors.1 . Harden off seedling : step by step exposethe seedling tooutdoor conditionsfor a week before transplanting.2 . select asunny spot : Select a well - debilitate locationwith full sun.3 . train the ground : Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve fertility.4.Dig holes : fag holes 2 - 3 feet asunder and 12 inches deep.5 . Transplant seedling : Carefully removethe seedlings from theseed trayand works them in the holes .
Growing and Caring for Squash Plants
Once yoursquash plantsareestablished outdoors , theyrequire uniform careto thrive.1 . lachrymation : piddle regularly , specially during red-hot and dry weather.2 . fecundate : inseminate the plant every few week with a balanced fertilizer.3 . Mulching : Spread a level of mulch around the plants toretain wet , suppress weeds , and determine soil temperature.4 . Pollination : Squash plants require pollination toproduce fruit . Ensure there arepollinators nearbyor hand - cross-pollinate the flower .
Harvesting Squash
Depending on the variety , squash is quick to glean when :
Storing Squash
1 . Summer mash : Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.2 . Winter squash : Store in a cool , dry placefor several months .
Troubleshooting Common Problems
1 . Blossom close guff : induce bycalcium inadequacy . water supply regularly and use calcium - rich fertilizers.2 . Powdery mold : Afungal disease . Remove infect leaves and spray with a fungicide.3 . Vine borers : These pests can damage the prow . supervise plants for signs of infestation and useinsecticidal soapor neem oil .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : How long does it take togrow squashfrom fresh seeds?A : summertime squelch takes50 - 60 days , whilewinter squash takes90 - 120 days . Q : Can Igrow squashin containers?A : Yes , but select avariety suitableforcontainer gardeningand economic consumption alarge potwith well - drained grime . Q : How do Iprevent squash plantsfrom spreading?A : Use treillage or cages to support the vine and keep them from sprawling .
