How soon after flowers do summer squashes mature? Winter squashes?
Question:Hi, how soon after flowers begin to die to squashes fully mature to be eaten? I have many varieties and they are both winter and summer.
Answers:
Hi there - I agree with the two gentlemen above, but thought I'd mention an indicator I use for harvesting winter squash. Watch the stem - it should turn brown and start to crack a little, vs. green while the squash is still growing. Once the winter squash have set and begun to grow large, it's a good idea to move them around just a little bit every once in a while to make sure they aren't sitting on wet soil (which leads to bugs nibbling on the skin and rind, and mold). Or even better, find something to prop them up off the ground. Good luck!
Summer squash can be eaten any time, including with the flower on . (Ever try the flowers? - Sweet! "Pumpkin Blossom Quesadillas - mmmmmm!!) - Just your preference .
Winter squash - time depends on variety, but best to wait 'til frost kills the plant . Make sure to get some stem, or the squash will rot fairly quickly .
As soon as the flowers begin to open and have a bright yellow-orange color, they can be harvested. I like to get them with the tiny, immature fruits on the ends to add some interest to the dish. I stuff they flowers (gently) with bread crumbs, seasoning and Parmesan cheese, then lightly saute.
For mature fruits, you must wait until zucchini or yellow squash are about four inches long. Winter squash takes longer and depends on the variety. I keep my winter squash and cantaloupes resting on a bed of straw until they mature to avoid insect and rot damage from contact with bare ground.
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