Planting Instructions for Summer Squash Seeds
- Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained, fertile soil. Summer squash thrives in warm weather.
- When to Plant: Sow Todd’s Seeds Summer Squash Seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 65°F. For an early start, sow indoors 2–4 weeks before the last frost and transplant carefully.
- Soil Prep: Loosen soil 8–12 inches deep and mix in compost or aged manure. Ideal soil pH is 6.0–6.8.
- Sowing Depth: Plant seeds 1 inch deep.
- Spacing:
- Bush varieties: Space seeds or plants 18–24 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart.
- Hill method: Plant 3–4 seeds per hill, spacing hills 3–4 feet apart. Thin to 2 strongest seedlings per hill.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during germination (7–10 days) and throughout the growing season. Water deeply at the base; avoid wetting the leaves.
- Care:
- Mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
- Fertilize when plants begin to flower with a low-nitrogen fertilizer to support fruit production.
- Harvest: Pick squash when fruits are 6–8 inches long and the skin is tender, usually 50–60 days after planting. Frequent harvesting encourages more production.