The Ultimate Guide: How to Grow Pumpkins and Squash

What’s the difference between pumpkins and squash

Before we dive into how to grow pumpkins and squash, it is important to understand the difference between the two. The answer is simple, pumpkins are a type of squash. Therefore, you can refer to a pumpkin as squash, but you cannot refer to squash as a pumpkin.

How to grow pumpkins and squash from seed

This crop is a hungry plant that needs lots of space, fertile soil, and full sun. Before choosing to grow squash, ensure you can provide them with the necessary environment. Start them off in module cells filled with peat-free compost between April and March then transfer them into larger pots once they become established plants. When they are big enough, harden them off and move them to their final destination once all signs of frost have disappeared.

Seed Germination

There are two ways to germinate seeds. Option one is to place the soaked seeds on a damp paper towel, wrap them up like a parcel, place them in a clear plastic bag and leave them on a windowsill. Germination should take roughly 5 days, however it is important to check every day as this could take longer. Plant them immediately once they have germinated.

The second option is to plant them directly into module cells individually, in peat-free compost. Push the seeds roughly two centimetres down. Sprinkle some more compost on top. Don’t forget to label them!

Planting out pumpkins and squash

It is time to transplant young plants when they are big enough to handle. This allows the plant to develop a larger and stronger root system. When all signs of frost are gone, begin hardening them off outside during the day for around 2 weeks. After which you can plant them at their destination.

Where to plant pumpkins and squash

Choose a space that is in full sun with rich soil. These plants are greedy and like lots of room. If you do not have the space or would like to be more efficient with the space you do have, consider growing vertically using a trellis or an arch.

Pollinating pumpkins and squash

These plants grow male and female flowers. Only the female flowers turn into fruit. For this to happen the pollen needs to be transferred from the male flower to the female. This should be done by bees and other pollinators but if you are experiencing a wet summer, you may need to aid in the pollination process.

How long does it take for squash and pumpkins to grow?

On average it will take around 4 months for your squash to grow. If they are summer squash you will be able to pick them through summer, as and when they are ready. Winter squash should be left to mature on the plant and therefore picked in September/ October, before the first frost.

Harvesting and storing

Pumpkins and squash are ready to harvest when the skin hardens, and the stem begins to crack. Keep the stem as long as possible and pick before the first frost using a sharp pair of secateurs. Keeping the long stem stops any infection or disease from getting into the squash or pumpkin. Depending on the variety, you can typically harvest 2 or 3 good-sized fruits from one plant and they should store for about a month. Leave the crop to dry out in the sun to toughen the skin and prevent them from drying out in storage.

To find out more on how to harvest squash and pumpkins, watch the video below.