![]() ![]() When using plastic mulches and row covers, seeds or plants can be set out 2-3 weeks before the last frost. After laying out the mulch, secure the edges with soil and cut holes for the seeds or transplants. Plastic mulches allow earlier planting and maturity of seeded or transplanted squash. Mulchīlack plastic mulches warm the soil, conserve water, and help control weeds. Avoid damaging the roots when planting which slows establishment and growth. Transplants should be planted 2 feet apart in the row with rows 4-6 feet apart. After they have two leaves, thin to two plants per mound. Squash should be planted when soils are 65☏ or after all frost danger has past. Transplants should have 2- 3 mature leaves and a well-developed root system. Squash are mostly grown from seed, though transplanting is possible. ![]() Before planting, incorporate up to 2 inches of compost into the garden area or apply 4-6 cups of all-purpose fertilizer (16-16-8 or 10-10-10) per 100 square feet of garden area before planting. Soil PreparationĬhoose a site in your garden that receives full sun. ![]() Most soils in Utah will grow squash provided they are well drained. How to Grow SoilĪll squash prefer organic, rich, well-drained, sandy soils for best growth. Most produce smaller (3-10 lb.) fruits that vary greatly in rind and flesh color, fruit texture and flavor. There are numerous varieties of butternut, buttercup, and acorn squash varieties featured at local gardening outlets and through seed catalogs. Pink banana is a large (25-40 lb.) fruited pink skinned winter squash. Most varieties of yellow squash, zucchini, crookneck, and patty pan summer squash do well throughout Utah. Most summer squash varieties perform well in all areas of Utah. Excellent winter varieties include Pink Banana, Early Butternut and Table Ace. Harvest summer squash shortly after they flower and winter squash when the skin is hard and not easily broken when pressure is applied with a fingernail. Control insects and diseases throughout the year. Plastic and organic mulches help conserve water and reduce weeding however, do not apply organic mulches until soils have warmed to 75☏. Irrigation should be deep and infrequent. After the vines develop runners, side dress with additional nitrogen fertilizer. Plant winter squash at same time as pumpkins. Use row covers or hot caps to protect the plants when planting before the frost-free period. Transplant summer squash 2 feet apart through black plastic for early maturity. Thin the mounds after emergence to two plants. Seeds should be planted 1-2 inches deep, in mounds 4 feet apart. Plant 4-6 squash seeds directly in the garden when soils are 65☏. Incorporate organic matter and a complete fertilizer into the area before planting. Squash grow best in sunny locations and in fertile, well drained soils. ![]()
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