Growing Squash, also Crookneck, Pattypan, Summer squash

Cucurbita pepo : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S S S S            
      T T T T T        
      P P P P          

(Best months for growing Squash in Australia - tropical regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 21°C and 35°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 60 - 80 cm apart
  • Harvest in 7-8 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Sweet corn

Your comments and tips

09 Sep 09, Portia Walker (Australia - temperate climate)
I want to grow spaghetti vegetable, does anyone in Perth have any tips, ideas... seeds
13 Jan 09, Orange Roughie (Australia - temperate climate)
There are a number of different types of squash ranging in mature colour from pale green to bright yellow. Pick when you feel your squash has stopped growing rapidly. Once the flower is pollinated you will see 2 weeks or so of rapid growth, after which it slows down somewhat. Experience of your own plant will tell you when is the best time to pick them, too big and they get 'floury' and too small and they are not ripe enough. Learn from your own plant, and let them grow.
10 Nov 08, Elaine Boness (Australia - temperate climate)
I also would like to know when to harvest squash as this is the first time I've grown it. Do you harvest it the moment the flower dies off the end inlike comment before mine are yellow on plant
27 Oct 08, Gabi (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
when should you cut yellow ruffle squash from the plant? We were told to cut them young and green and allow to yellow, but they have not yellowed as yet.
Showing 41 - 44 of 44 comments

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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