Here are a few simple tips for success with growing organic squash in your backyard garden…

Squash is a delicious, versatile, and relatively easy-to-grow crop that does well in a wide variety of climates. In general, squash enjoys warm weather, but many summer squashes will grow and produce quite well in short-season areas.

Winter squashes usually require a longer growing season to mature and develop their sweetness, so if you have a short growing season, you may wish to start your winter squash plants indoors in the spring a few weeks ahead of your last frost date to give them a head start before planting out in the garden.

If you have at least 120 frost-free days in your average growing season, you can plant both summer and winter squash seeds directly outdoors after danger of frost has passed in the late spring.

Squash is also a great crop for kids to grow, as they grow so quickly and produce very vigorously, offering quick and generous rewards for even the novice gardener!

The most common problems you will likely encounter when growing squash are squash bugs and vine borers, and diseases such as powdery mildew. However, these issues can be managed with organic techniques, and in general, they are relatively problem-free.

This quick video shares some success tips for growing organic squash – no matter where you’re growing or what type of squash you prefer: