How to Plant Crookneck Squash
Crookneck squash is a favorite summer vegetable for many and is versatile in how it can be prepared. Yellow crookneck squash grows on bushes and can be planted by seed as soon as the danger of frost has passed and the soil is warm. While one plant can produce enough for a family of four, several plants offer abundance for those who like to preserve fresh vegetables by freezing or canning. Harvest is typically within 55 days of planting. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- tiller hoe crookneck squash seeds water watering can compost (optional) Ivory Liquid Soap (optional) spray bottle (optional)
Instructions
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How to Plant Crookneck Squash
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Work the soil in the garden area with a tiller until all clumps have been removed. Ensure the area considered for crookneck squash is in a sunny location. Although it is optional, this is a good time to add compost to the soil and work it in with the tiller.
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Using a hoe, make hills in the row in which you would like to plant crookneck squash, with each hill approximately three feet apart. Upon sprouting, each hill will contain one to two crookneck squash plants after thinning.
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Place four or five crookneck squash seeds on top of each hill and cover with approximately one inch of soil.
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Water each hill with a watering can. This is optional, depending on the weather and whether or not you would like Mother Nature to be in charge.
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Thin each hill once seedlings emerge, leaving one or two of the healthiest sprouts.
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Water each hill regularly at the center of the plant during hot, dry periods, as crookneck squash grows better with ample sun and water.
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Weed as often as necessary.
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Harvest crookneck squash while they are young, pale yellow in color, and four to six inches in length. Squash grow rapidly and, when more than one plant exists, you can expect to harvest daily after production begins. Over-mature squash can be used for feeding farm animals or as compost.
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Tips & Warnings
If insects become a problem, mix one third part Ivory Liquid Soap with two parts water in a spray bottle and spray the leaves of plants. Make sure to spray the underside of leaves as well.
The large leaves of the squash plant provide wonderful shade for resting snakes. Take caution when harvesting.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Photo by: Creative Commons - www.echotech.org/ bookstore/images
