squash · Pruning

squash · Cucurbita moschata
Also known as: American squash; Canada pumpkin; crookneck squash; cushaw; Japanese pie pumpkin; musk melon; pumpkin; Quaker pie pumpkin; sweet potato pumpkin; winter crookneck squash; winter squash; butternut squash

Grow in fertile, moisture retentive but well drained, acidic to neutral soil in full sun. Sow indoors March to May in good quality seed compost. Sow the seeds on their side 1cm deep and maintain a constant temperature of 18-21C. Feed regularly with a high potassium fertiliser when the first fruits start to swell. See squash cultivation for more advice

Watering: Keep moisture even through flowering and fruiting, avoiding hard dry swingsSunlight: Full sunIf crop is bitter, don't eat. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling