squash family

Pumpkins and squash

Cucurbita spp. · Easy

Sprawling, productive summer crops that release a large footprint from late summer into autumn.

Sow

Sow indoors in mid-spring or outdoors from late spring once conditions warm.

Plant out after frost, usually late May or early June.

Summer squash from July; pumpkins and winter squash mainly September–October before hard frost.

Practical growing notes

Plant spacing: Commonly 90 cm or more; vigorous trailing types need substantially more room.
Light: Full sun with shelter from cold wind.
Containers: Compact varieties only, in very large containers with regular water and feeding.

High yields and long-storing fruits from one plant, followed by a generous autumn planting space.

Hungry, thirsty growth, powdery mildew and a much larger footprint than young plants suggest.

Keep the bed moving

A quick cool-season leaf crop for spring and autumn, with repeat pickings from small sowings.

A compact peppery leaf crop that can be harvested repeatedly and grows well in containers.

A low-maintenance overwintering crop planted as named, disease-free cloves.

A hardy bean that provides an early harvest and can free a bed in time for summer crops.