Crop Rotation Group
Cucurbits (Squash family)
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Soil
Rich, moisture-retentive soil with plenty of compost dug in.
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Position
Full sun.
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Frost tolerant
No.
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Feeding
When they start flowering, feed with a slow release, potassium rich organic fertiliser. After plants set fruit, feed twice, at two week intervals, with a water soluble plant food.
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Companions
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Spacing
Single Plants: 90cm (2' 11") each way (minimum)
Rows: 90cm (2' 11") with 90cm (2' 11") row gap (minimum)
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Sow and Plant
Frost areas: sow under cover 6 weeks before last spring frost. Plant out in late spring, when the weather is settled and warm. Frost free areas: Sow seed directly or in seed beds/seed trays in spring
Our Garden Planning Tool can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
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Notes
Keep moist by watering regularly. Pinch out the growing tip once the plant has made three leaves and do the same to side shoots as they appear.
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Harvesting
Harvest fruit as soon as it feels slightly soft when the ends are pressed.
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Troubleshooting
Control weeds early and then mulch to avoid trampling the vines after fruits have set.
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