winter squash

Winter squash should be watered deeply and thoroughly every 5-7 days. Watering should be done in the morning so the leaves have a chance to dry during the day. If your soil is very sandy or light, you may need to water more often. Winter squash need around an inch of water per week, so make sure the water is penetrating 8-12 inches into the soil.You should aim to keep the soil of your Winter squash consistently moist but well-drained.

Winter squash (Cucurbita maxima) does best when exposed to 8-10 hours of direct sunlight each day. This should include both the early morning and late afternoon light, as UV radiation is strongest during this time. The plant will need to be in a spot that provides bright and direct sunlight for a majority of the day. That being said, winter squash can tolerate some shade, however it will still need a minimum of 6-8 hours of sun exposure for optimal growth.

Winter squash (Cucurbita maxima) should be pruned at the end of the season, around 3 months after planting. It's best to prune away any dead or diseased stems and to trim away additional stems that may be competing with the main leaders for nutrients. Additionally, it is important to keep the plant in a compact shape by pinching off any sucker growth that may be growing beneath the main branches. It is also beneficial to prune off any foliage that may be blocking sunlight and airflow from reaching the internal parts of the plant. Pruning should be done carefully so as to not damage the plant.