Summer and winter squash grow quickly to maturity within 50 days, so quick seed germination isn't really an issue. Winter squashes, on the other hand, need a long, warm growing season. Getting them started as quickly as possible ensures enough time for an ample harvest. When given enough warmth and moisture, squash seeds emerge within 6 to 12 days.
- Direct sow summer squash in the garden in spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to 70°F (21°C). In warm-winter regions, sow squash in midwinter for harvest in early summer.
- Summer squash seeds will not germinate at a soil temperature below 60°F (15°C).
- To get an early start, sow seed indoors 4 to 3 weeks before planting out. The indoor temperature should be 80 to 90°F (27-32°C) until germination. Grow seedlings at 75°F (24°C).
- Start seed indoors in peat pots filled with seed starting mix.
- Sow seed ½ to 1 inch (13mm-2.5 cm) deep.
- Seeds germinate in 7 to 10 days at 85°F (29°C) or warmer.
- Transplant summer squash into the garden after the soil has warmed to at least 70°F (21°C).
- Space plants in the garden 12 to 18 inches (30-45 cm) apart in all directions.
- Thin successful plants to 36 inches (90 cm) apart.
- Water to keep the soil from drying.
- Fertilize with fish emulsion or a soluble complete fertilizer at half strength.
- Add aged compost to planting beds in advance of transplanting.
- Summer squash prefers a soil pH of 5.5 to 6.8.
- Grow summer squash in full sun for best yield.
- Avoid planting summer squash where cucumbers or melons have grown recently.
- Common summer squash pest enemies include aphids, cucumber beetles, flea beetles, squash bugs, squash vine borers, slugs, and snails.
- Common diseases include bacterial wilt, fusarium wilt, downy mildew, powdery mildew, cucumber mosaic.
Plant summer squash with bush beans, corn, dill, eggplant, lettuce, cucumbers, squash, and tomatoes.
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