How to grow squash

Squash is a rewarding vegetable to grow, thriving in warm weather and offering abundant harvests. Available in summer and winter varieties, squash is versatile in cooking, from grilling to roasting or even baking delicious pies.

How to grow squash from seed
When to plant squash
How far apart to plant squash
How much space squash needs
Does squash need a trellis
Where to plant squash
How much sunlight squash needs
What temperature squash grows in
Can squash handle frost
How much water squash needs
How often to water squash
How long squash takes to grow
When to harvest/pick squash
How to harvest/pick squash
Can you grow squash indoors
How to grow squash in pots/containers

How to grow squash from seed

Squash is easy to grow from seed, and planting them directly into the garden is often the most successful. Start squash seeds outdoors once all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed to around 60°F (16°C). Plant seeds about 1 inch deep in fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Water regularly, keeping the soil moist until germination occurs, typically in about 7 to 14 days. For an earlier start, you can begin seeds indoors about 3-4 weeks before transplanting outdoors, but handle seedlings gently as squash doesn't like root disturbance.

When to plant squash

Squash plants thrive in warm weather, so wait until after your region’s last frost date has passed before planting. Ideally, daytime temperatures should consistently be above 60°F (16°C). If you're starting seeds indoors, plant about a month before you plan to transplant outside. For winter squash varieties, planting early enough to provide at least 3 months of warm, frost-free growth is important to ensure maturity and successful harvesting.

How far apart to plant squash

Squash plants, especially larger winter varieties, need ample room to spread out. Summer squash should be spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart in rows that are 3 feet apart. Winter squash varieties, being more vigorous growers, require more space—typically about 3 to 5 feet apart, with rows at least 6 feet apart. Proper spacing ensures good airflow, sunlight exposure, and reduces disease risk, helping plants remain healthy and productive.

How much space squash needs

Squash plants, particularly winter varieties, can grow significantly in size, producing sprawling vines. Each plant can require a minimum of 3 square feet for summer squash varieties, while winter squash may require up to 10 square feet or more. Squash grows best when given plenty of space to spread. Crowding plants can limit yields, reduce fruit size, and increase the risk of disease due to poor airflow and competition for nutrients.

Does squash need a trellis

Squash typically grows on sprawling vines that don’t strictly require a trellis, but growing squash vertically can save significant garden space and improve air circulation. Summer squash, being lighter, can be easily grown vertically on a trellis or stake. Heavier winter varieties, like butternut or acorn squash, can also benefit from trellising but may require additional support like netting or slings to help hold heavier fruit.

Where to plant squash

Plant squash in a sunny spot with rich, fertile soil that drains well. The ideal soil pH for squash is between 6.0 and 7.0. Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and moisture retention. Raised beds or mounds work well, as they improve drainage and soil warmth, both beneficial for vigorous squash growth. Avoid low-lying or overly wet areas to reduce the risk of disease.

How much sunlight squash needs

Squash plants are sun-lovers, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The more sunlight your plants receive, the more productive they'll be, producing abundant blossoms and fruits. Squash grown in partial shade tends to yield fewer fruits and has more susceptibility to disease. Ensure your chosen location receives ample direct sunlight, especially during the morning hours.

What temperature squash grows in

Squash thrives in warm conditions, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Growth slows noticeably at temperatures below 60°F (16°C), and prolonged periods of cold can stunt development or halt fruit production. Higher temperatures, above 95°F (35°C), can stress the plants, potentially leading to blossom drop. Optimal conditions include warm days, cooler evenings, and consistent moisture to help maintain steady growth.

Can squash handle frost

Squash is extremely sensitive to frost and will quickly die if temperatures drop below freezing. Any exposure to frost or prolonged cold temperatures can severely damage or kill plants outright. Always wait until after your region’s last expected frost before planting squash outdoors. If unexpected cold weather arises, protect the squash with row covers or blankets overnight.

How much water squash needs

Squash requires regular watering, typically about 1 to 2 inches of water per week, depending on weather conditions. Squash plants have deep root systems and thrive when watered deeply and consistently. Even soil moisture promotes steady growth, better fruit production, and prevents issues like blossom-end rot or misshapen fruit caused by inconsistent watering.

How often to water squash

Water squash plants deeply and evenly, about once or twice per week, adjusting for rainfall and temperature. During hot, dry conditions, plants may need watering every two to three days to keep the soil consistently moist. Always water at the base of the plant rather than overhead, to minimize disease risk and ensure efficient water absorption.

How long squash takes to grow

Summer squash varieties generally mature quickly, usually within 40 to 60 days after planting seeds. Winter squash varieties typically take longer, between 80 and 120 days to reach maturity. Specific times can vary significantly depending on the variety you plant, so check your seed packets for precise timing to plan your garden schedule effectively.

When to harvest/pick squash

Summer squash should be harvested while still tender, usually around 6 to 8 inches in length, for maximum flavor and texture. Winter squash, however, is harvested once fully matured, typically late in the growing season when the skin is hard and can't be pierced easily with a fingernail. Also, the stems should appear dry and woody when ready.

How to harvest/pick squash

Use sharp pruning shears or scissors to cut squash from the vine, leaving about 1 inch of stem attached. Leaving a small portion of the stem intact helps extend storage life and prevents rot. Handle squash gently during harvest to avoid bruising or damage to the fruit, as damaged squash tends to spoil more quickly.

Can you grow squash indoors

While squash plants can start indoors, they are typically not suited for full indoor growing because of their size and extensive vining nature. However, you can successfully germinate and grow seedlings indoors in pots for 3 to 4 weeks before moving them outside to a garden bed or large container. Indoors, ensure plants receive plenty of light from a sunny window or supplemental grow lights.

How to grow squash in pots/containers

Squash grows well in large containers or pots, ideally at least 18 to 24 inches in diameter and equally deep. Ensure containers have sufficient drainage holes and use a nutrient-rich potting soil blend. Regular watering, feeding with liquid fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks, and positioning the pots in full sun will help squash plants thrive. Smaller, bush-type squash varieties are especially suited to container gardening, providing excellent yields even in limited space.