Summer Squash — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Cucurbita pepo |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 5–10 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 21.1–35 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 50–65 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 61–91.4 |
| Mature height (cm) | 45.7–91.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 61–121.9 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 2–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Direct-sow seeds 1 inch deep in groups of 2–3 after last frost when soil is warm — squash seeds rot in cool, wet soil; thin to the strongest plant. Summer squash (zucchini, yellow crookneck, patty pan) is the most productive vegetable in the summer garden and is one of the easiest to grow, producing an abundant harvest within 50–65 days. Harvest frequently when fruits are small and tender (6–8 inches for zucchini) to encourage continuous production — fruits overlooked for even a few days become enormous and tough, and the plant stops producing. Water consistently at the base and avoid wetting the leaves to reduce powdery mildew. Squash vine borer is a major pest in the eastern US; row cover early in the season provides protection.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0