Frequently Asked Questions About Squash Seeds
Is squash a vegetable?
While squash varieties tend to have a savory flavor similar to other vegetables, squash is actually a fruit. Squash falls under the botanical definition of a fruit because it contains seeds and comes from the flower-producing part of a plant which are defining factors for a fruit.
What are the types of squash?
There are quite a few types of squash to choose from! Squash come from the gourd family and are separated into two main types: summer and winter varieties. One big difference between summer and winter squash besides their growing seasons is that summer squash tend to have soft, edible rinds whereas winter squash have hard, inedible rinds. Popular types of summer squash include zucchini, yellow squash, pattypan and cousa. Popular types of winter squash include acorn, butternut, spaghetti and Kabocha.
Types of Green Squash
- Zucchini
- Acorn
- Buttercup
- Hubbard
Yellow Squash Varieties
- Early Prolific Straightneck
- Golden Summer Crookneck
- Golden Zucchini
- Spaghetti
When is it best to plant butternut squash?
Even though butternut squash is a winter variety, you will need to plant the seeds in spring. Once the last frost of spring has passed, direct sow seeds in hills. In general, you should plan to plant your butternut squash seeds between April to June for a harvest from August to October. One the rind is thick and hardened, your butternut squash is ready to be harvested!
When is it best to plant winter squash?
The best time to plant winter squash is as soon as the last frost in spring has passed. Winter squash will take the entire summer to mature, so you want to sow seeds or transplant seedlings as soon as you can. Starting seeds indoors can be a great way to get a jump on growing your winter squash. Once fall has arrived, you can check your squash by knocking on it, and if it sounds hollow inside, it is ready to go! Store your squash indoors and it will keep for a long time.
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