Squash

Squash

Squash is a group of plants in the genus Cucurbita, part of the family Cucurbitaceae. They are widely cultivated for their edible fruits, which come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Squash can be divided into two main categories: Summer Squash|summer squash, which are harvested when immature and have tender skins, and Winter Squash|winter squash, which are harvested when mature and have hard, thick skins.

Starting Squash Plants

To start squash plants:

1. Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost date in your area, when soil temperatures have reached at least 60°F (15°C)
2. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 2-3 feet apart, depending on the variety
3. Keep soil moist but not soggy
4. Provide plenty of space for the plants to grow and spread

Some squash varieties can be started indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost date and transplanted outdoors after hardening off.

Harvesting Squash

Squash are typically ready to harvest 50-120 days after sowing, depending on the variety. To harvest:

• For summer squash, pick the fruits when they are young and tender, typically 6-8 inches long
• For winter squash, allow the fruits to mature fully on the vine until the skin is hard and the stem is dry
• Cut the fruits from the vine using a sharp knife or pruners, leaving a short piece of stem attached
• Summer squash plants will continue to produce for several weeks with regular harvesting, while winter squash are typically harvested once at the end of the growing season.

Saving Squash Seeds

To save seeds from squash:

1. Allow the fruits to mature fully on the vine
2. Cut open the fruit and scoop out the seeds
3. Rinse the seeds to remove any pulp or debris
4. Allow the seeds to dry completely on a paper towel or screen
5. Store dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place

Common Squash Varieties

Some commonly grown squash varieties include:

• Zucchini: A type of summer squash with cylindrical, dark green fruits; examples include 'Black Beauty' and 'Cocozelle'
• Yellow Squash: A type of summer squash with straight or crookneck fruits; examples include 'Early Prolific Straightneck' and 'Sundance'
• Acorn Squash: A type of winter squash with small, acorn-shaped fruits; examples include 'Table King' and 'Honey Bear'
• Butternut Squash: A type of winter squash with elongated, tan fruits; examples include 'Waltham' and 'Ponca'
• Spaghetti Squash: A type of winter squash with oblong, yellow fruits that produce spaghetti-like strands when cooked; examples include 'Vegetable Spaghetti' and 'Tivoli'

Uses as Food

Squash are a versatile ingredient in many dishes:

• Summer squash can be grilled, sautéed, or added to salads and pasta dishes
• Winter squash can be roasted, baked, or pureed for soups and sauces
• Squash blossoms can be stuffed, fried, or used as a garnish
• Squash seeds can be roasted and eaten as a snack
• Squash are also known for their nutritional value, being low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins (vitamin A and vitamin C), and minerals like potassium and magnesium.