Overview

Squash , a phallus of the Cucurbitaceae household , is aversatile vegetablethatadds flavorand aliment to any garden . Growing squash with the guidance of the Royal Horticultural Society ( RHS ) ensure optimal result . This comprehensive guide will walk you through the crucial stairs to cultivate bountiful squash harvest time .

Choosing the Right Squash Variety

TheRHS commend choosing squash varieties suitablefor your climate andgrowing condition . Consider the following type :

Preparing the Soil

Squash thrives in well - drained , fertile soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.8 . ameliorate the soil with plenty of constitutional matter , such as compost or manure , to better fertility and water retention .

Sowing Seeds or Planting Seedlings

protrude squash semen indoors 4 - 6 hebdomad before the lastspring rime . Sow seeds 1 - 2inches deepin a ejaculate - starting mix . Once seedling have 2 - 3 true leave-taking , transplant them outdoors after the soil has warm to at least 60 ° F ( 16 ° C ) .

Spacing and Support

Plant crush seedlings 2 - 4 feet apart in rows that are 4 - 6 base aside . supply support for the vine by using treillage or cages to keep them off the basis and forbid fruit rot .

Watering and Fertilizing

Water squash plants deeply and on a regular basis , specially during hot , dry weather . Fertilize the plants every few workweek with abalanced plant food , such as a 10 - 10 - 10 blend .

Pollination

Squash flowers require pollination to produce fruit . Encourage pollination byattracting beesand other louse to your garden withflowering companion plantsor by hand - pollenate the efflorescence yourself .

Pest and Disease Control

Common pest of squash admit crush vine borers , cuke mallet , and aphids . dominance pest by using organic methods such as insecticidal soap or neem oil . disease like powdery mildew anddowny mildewcan be prevent byproviding equal air circulationand avoiding overwatering .

Harvesting and Storage

harvest time summertime squash when the fruit are unseasoned and sensitive , commonly within 50 - 60 days of planting . wintertime squash rackets should be harvested when the rinds are heavy and the radical are dark-brown and dry . Curewinter squashin a quick , dry placefor several hebdomad before storing it in a cool , sour localization for up to 6 months .

Tips for Success

Wrapping Up

Growing squash with the RHS guidance is arewarding experiencethat yields scrumptious and alimentary harvest . By following thesteps outlinedin this comprehensive guidebook , you may cultivate bountiful squash plants that will expand in your garden . Whether you ’re a seasoned gardener or a novice , this guide will empower you to grow squelch - tacular success !

Information You Need to Know

Q : What is the in effect time to implant squash?A : Plant squash seedsorseedlings outdoorsafter the lastspring frostand when the stain has warm to at least 60 ° F ( 16 ° C).Q : How often should I water squash plants?A : Water squash plants deeply and regularly , especially during hot , dry weather condition . Avoid overwatering , as this can chair to root word rot . Q : How can I preclude squash vine borers?A : Control squash vine borers by using organic methods such asinsecticidal soaporneem oil . you’re able to also handle the stand of the plant life with arow coverto forestall moth from laying eggs . Q : What are the signs ofpowdery mildewon mash plants?A : Powdery mildew appearsas a white orgray powdery coatingon the parting ofsquash plants . It can stunt flora growth and slim down return . Q : How can Istore winter squashfor long periods?A : Cure winter mash in a warm , teetotal placefor several weeks before storing it in a coolheaded , non-white locationfor up to 6 month . Check thesquash occasionallyfor signs of spoilage .