Squash is a type of fruit that is often categorized by its maturity when harvested. Summer squash are harvested when the fruit is immature, and still has a soft, edible rind. The most commonly seen summer squashes are crookneck squash and zucchini. Winter squash are fully mature, with a hard skin and a wealth of nutrients. The two types of squash have different growing requirements, each yielding a tasty and nutritious fruit.

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Summer squash are a warm season crop. They require soil temperatures to be between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. In the right conditions, most summer squash will reach maturity in 40-50 days. It is absolutely imperative that the soil temperature is at least 60 degrees in the top 6 inches before planting seeds. Summer squash like plenty of sunlight and mildly acidic soil. You should leave 48” of space between each plant, and use small hills. After planting, it is advisable to use a 2-3” layer of mulch to keep in some of the soil’s moisture. Summer squash require 1” of water every 5-7 days.

Winter squash include butternut, acorn, and spaghetti, and are very simple to grow. Simply place the seeds in small hills just after the last frost. Keep the plants about 3 feet apart. The vines from the plants will entirely cover the hill until maturation. It will take all summer for the fruit to mature, usually ready to be harvested towards the end of the fall. Plants have matured when the fruit has a thick, dark rind, and sounds hollow when tapped upon.