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By George Boyhan
University of
Georgia

The term ‘winter squash’ might have you thinking about growing
squash during the winter. But all squash are warm-season crops.
The name is a bit misleading — storage squash would be more
accurate.

The yellow crookneck and zucchini squash we eat during the summer
are actually immature forms that remain tender with edible seed.
Allow these types to continue growing and they get huge, with
hard seeds and rinds.

Winter squash are types that are selected for their ability to be
stored. Our ancestors spent long winters relying on food like
this.

Ornamental squash

Today, many of the winter squash are grown for ornamental
purposes: multicolored Turk’s turban, graceful swan-shaped fruit,
even a squash that looks like a giant green apple.

Many of these are becoming popular fall decorations, competing
with the ever-present pumpkin. Don’t forget, though, that they’re
edible. Many recipes are available.

The shapes and colors are almost endless, with growth habits from
compact bushy plants to vining types that will take over your
garden.

To grow winter squash, start from seed or transplants around the
first of August. Depending on the variety, winter squash take 80
to 120 days to mature.

Resistant varieties

Winter squash can be affected by several diseases, so plant
resistant or tolerant varieties if they’re available. When it
comes to handling these diseases, winter squash will do better in
north Georgia for fall production.

Insects can also be a problem with fall production. Scout your
plants regularly for insects and their damage. Early detection is
best for control. Check with your county extension agent for
disease and insect control measures.

Whether starting with seed or seedlings, a well-prepared bed free
of plant debris and weeds is best. Adding organic matter is
always helpful in increasing soil fertility and water-holding
capacity.

Test your soil

Having your soil tested is the best way to determine the
fertility needs of winter squash. Your county agent can help you
with this.

A good, general fertilizer recipe for winter squash would begin
with 14 pounds of 10-10-10 fertilizer broadcast for every 1,000
square feet. Three to four weeks after planting, side-dress the
plants with another 9 pounds of calcium nitrate or 4 pounds of
ammonium nitrate per 1,000 square feet. You may need to make an
additional side-dress for varieties that take 120 days to
mature.

Winter squash are ready for harvest when they’ve reached the
right size and color for the particular variety. The rind, too,
will be hard and not give when pressed with your thumbnail.

So get out there and plant some winter squash. Your ancestors
would be proud.