Time to Plant
Yellow squash is a heat-loving plant that must be planted when all danger of frost is gone. It will not thrive in cool temperatures. Here are two ways of getting yellow squash started and when to do so:
Seed
Yellow squash seed should not be sowed in the ground until the outside temperature is consistently 65°F (18°C) or higher. The soil temperature two inches below the surface should be at least 60°F (16°C). In most growing regions this occurs in late spring or early summer.
Seed can be sowed during the summer months also as long as there is ample time to get a crop in before the first frost. Later crops sometimes better escape the ravages of common squash pests.
Seedlings
Short season gardeners may prefer getting an early start by growing squash seedlings inside their greenhouse or home. This should be started two to four weeks before the last frost. Place seedlings in the outside soil the same time you would sow the squash seeds.
Where to Plant
Yellow squash plants can have a diameter of 24-36 inches. After you determine you have enough space for the squash plants there are some other aspects to consider. Here are some must-haves for the yellow squash plant:
- At least six hours of sunlight per day
- Fertile, well composted soil
- Well-drained soil
- Planted in area where nothing in cucurbit family grew the previous year
How to Plant Seedlings
Transplanting yellow squash seedlings is not the best way to have thriving plants, but it can still be done. The delicate root systems of all squash plants are disturbed in the process of transplanting. If a few crucial steps are taken, the chances of survival of the plants are increased.
First, using quality seed starting mix, plant seeds 3/4 inches deep in five-inch or deeper pots. Next, the soil mix should be well moistened, but not soggy. Lastly, when seedlings have only one set of true leaves, plant them in the garden if the air and soil temperatures are high enough. Plant them in hills or rows three feet apart.
How to Plant Seeds
When the soil is prepared, sow yellow squash seeds one inch deep. Six seeds grouped by two per hill (eight feet diameter) should be planted about 36 inches apart. Once the seedlings have germinated and developed true leaves, cut at soil surface the weakest one of each group.
Direct sowing of yellow squash seeds in row gardens can be done also. Plant the seeds one inch deep and 36 inches apart. Plant extra seeds and leave the healthiest seedlings.
