How to Tell If a Yellow Squash Is Ready to Harvest?
Yellow squash is an umbrella term for several varieties of summer squash that are grown throughout the United States during warm-weather months. Although, according to the Weekend Gardener, summer squash is one of the easiest vegetable crops to cultivate, it is also true that it must be closely monitored. Yellow squash develops very rapidly and requires consistent and frequent harvesting during the growing season. For the best flavor and texture, harvest yellow squash while it is still young and fresh. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Examine your yellow squash plants every 1 to 2 days for new growth.
-
2
Harvest yellow squash within 4 to 8 days of flowering, while it is still small and its skin is soft, tender and smooth. (Use pruning shears to cut each squash with approximately 1 inch of stem attached.)
-
-
3
Harvest patty pan squash varieties when they are approximately 3 to 4 inches in diameter.
-
4
Harvest elongated yellow squash, like the goldbar, sundance and early yellow summer crookneck varieties, when they are approximately 6 to 8 inches long and no larger than 2 inches in diameter.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Plant basil or radishes among your yellow squash to repel pests like beetles and squash bugs.
The leaves and stems of yellow squash plants are prickly. Wear gloves and protect your arms.
Young, tender squash bruises easily, so handle it gently.
Store whole, harvested squash in your refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Do not allow yellow squash to become too large. Large squash pull energy from your plants and inhibit new growth.
