Help I have a Monster growing in my garden?
Question:I am a mixture of proud but scared !
I have grown from Seed (Pat on the back please) two butternut squash plants.
They now look like triffids, huge with massive leaves.
Problem is i do not know what to do next, how do i care for them etc etc.
Anyone out there know ?
Answers:
Winter squash is usually direct seeded in the garden, anytime after the last frost date. Squash plants won’t take off until the ground is warm, so don’t rush planting. In areas with short growing seasons, transplants started 3-4 weeks before planting out, may be preferable.
Winter squash prefers a rich, well drained soil. Seeds are traditionally planted in hills, thinned to 3 plants per hill, about 3 feet apart. Squash plants have both male and female blossoms and they both must be present at the same time for pollination to occur. Having multiple plants with multiple blossoms will increase the chance of pollination.
Maintenance: Winter squash does not generally need mulching, because the long vines basically self-mulch. Be sure to provide regular water, especially once the fruits have been set.
Keep them well watered, feed with a liquid fertiliser, try to support the developing squashes on one of the big leaves or on old sacking to keep the mud off. Pick the squashes when ripe. After the first frosts of autumn the plants will die. Well done!
I don't know the answer but loved your post - thanks for the laugh! :)
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