straightaway summary
Choosing the Right Time
The ideal time totransplant wintertime squashis when the soil temperature has reached at least 60 ° F ( 16 ° degree centigrade ) . In most areas , this occurs in tardy spring or early summer . ward off transplanting too early , ascold soilcan stunt plant growth .
Preparing the Soil
Winter squash prefers well - drain , fertile soilwith a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 . meliorate the soil with constituent matter , such as compost or manure , toimprove drainageand fertility rate . grok a hole that is doubly the width of the root ball and deep enough to accommodate the entire rootage organisation .
Hardening Off Seedlings
Before transplantation , harden off the seedling bygradually exposingthem to out-of-door condition . Place the seedling in a sheltered country outside for a few hours each day , increasing theexposure sentence graduallyover a period of 7 - 10 days . This process helps theseedlings adaptto the outside environment and reduce transplant shock .
Transplanting the Seedlings
1 . cautiously hit the seedling from their containers.2 . mildly loosen the roots and spread them out.3 . localise the seedling in theprepared holesand filling in the soil around the root , tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.4 . Water the seedlings soundly to ensconce the soil.5 . Mulch around the plant withorganic materialtoretain moistureand suppress weeds .
Spacing and Support
Space thewinter mash plantsaccording to theirmature sizing . The distance between plants should be 2 - 3 pes for bush varieties and 4 - 6 foot forvining varieties . Provide support for vining variety using trellises or bet to keep them from sprawling on the land .
Watering and Fertilizing
Pest and Disease Control
wintertime squash racquets can be susceptible to pest such assquash bugsand powdery mold . Inspect the plants on a regular basis for signs of pests or disease and take appropriate control measure . Use organic pest control methods whenever potential , such asinsecticidal soapor neem oil .
Harvesting and Storage
wintertime squeeze is ready to glean when the skin is hard and can not beeasily piercedwith a fingernail . Cut the fruit from the vines , leaving ashort stem attached . Store the squash in a cool , dry place with good ventilation . Winter squash racquets can be lay in for several month under right conditions .
Tips for Success
Common Questions and Answers
Q : Can Itransplant wintertime squashfromseed directlyinto the garden?A : Yes , but it is generally not recommended . Direct seeding can lead topoor germinationand stunted growth . Q : How deep should I plant winter crush seedlings?A : Plant the seedling so that thesoil lineis at the same floor as it was in the container . Q : How often should I irrigate wintertime squeeze plants?A : Water theplants deeplyonce or twice a week , reckon on the conditions conditions . Q : What is the best way to store winter squash?A : Store winter squashin a cool , juiceless post withgood ventilation system . Ideal storage conditions are between 50 - 55 ° F ( 10 - 13 ° C ) and 60 - 70 % humidity . Q : Can I feed winter squash raw?A : No , wintertime squashshould be cooked before eating .
