Squash - Summer 'Black Beauty' (Squash - Summer)

Squash are warm soil and weather plants and are very susceptible to frost. It is recommended that you wait 2 weeks AFTER the last frost free date, until the soil has warmed to about 70F (21C). Direct seed 1/2 - 1 inch (1 - 2 cm) deep into hills or rows which warm and drain earlier in the season. 4 - 5 seeds per hill is ideal, and space hills 3 - 4 feet (90 - 120 cm) apart. When the plants are 2 - 3 inches (5 - 8 cm) tall, thin to 2 - 3 plants per hill by cutting unneeded plants without disturbing the remaining roots. Sow seeds 4 inches (10 cm) apart in rows 4 - 5 feet (120-150 cm) apart. Snip off plants to thin one plant every 12 - 24 inches (30 - 60 cm). Remove or till-in vines to reduce mildew at the end of the season. To discourage squash borers from laying eggs, mound soil around the base of the crop. Mulching also helps to suppress weeds and retain moisture. To discourage squash borers from laying eggs, mound soil around the base of the crop. Mulching also helps to suppress weeds and retain moisture. Row covers are good for protecting plants and preventing insect problems, but remember to remove the cover to facilitate pollination before flowering.

Be careful not to interplant summer and winter squash in the same area, otherwise there may be cross pollination.