Squash – Summer – Early Prolific Straightneck

Cucurbita pepo – ‘Summer – Early Prolific Straightneck’

• Growing Temp 70°F – 90°F

• Days to Maturity 50-60 days

Ease of Cultivation and bountiful yields: Early Prolific Straightneck squash is a popular summer variety known for its smooth, straight, and yellow fruit. This vegetable is relatively easy to grow, making it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners. Its early maturity and high yield make it a favorite, and the squash can be enjoyed fresh in salads, sautéed, or used in various recipes, offering a sweet and delicate flavor.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant Early Prolific Straightneck squash seeds outdoors once the soil temperature has reached at least 70°F. Sow the seeds about 1 inch deep and 2-3 feet apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart. Germination typically occurs within 7-14 days. Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during dry periods, and use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. As the plants grow, they may require space to spread out, so ensure adequate spacing.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: For an early start, sow seeds indoors 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays filled with a quality potting mix, placing 1-2 seeds per cell. Maintain a temperature of 70-75°F to encourage germination. Once the seedlings develop their first true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 2-3 feet apart. Water well after planting and mulch around the base to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting: To determine when to harvest Early Prolific Straightneck squash, check for mature fruit approximately 50-60 days after sowing. The squash should be young, tender, and about 6-8 inches long with a bright yellow color. Regular harvesting will encourage continued production, so it’s best to pick them when they are still young for optimal flavor and texture. If left too long on the plant, the squash can become tough and less enjoyable.