all important Information
Melbourne’stemperate climateand productive grunge put up ideal precondition for growing a variety of vegetables , include the various and nutritious squash . This comprehensive pathfinder will provide you with all theessential knowledgeand techniques you ask tosuccessfully crop squashin your Melbourne garden .
1. Choosing the Right Squash Variety
Melbourne’sclimate favorscertainsquash varieties , including :
2. Soil Preparation and Planting
Squash require well - enfeeble soilwith a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 . Amend the soil with compost ororganic mattertoimprove fertilityand drain . constitute squash seeds 1 - 2inches deepand 3 - 4 feet apart in quarrel that are 6 - 8 foot apart . Water the seeds soundly after plant .
3. Watering and Fertilizing
Squash require unconstipated watering , especially during live , wry weather . Water deep and infrequently to encourage deep ascendant growth . Fertilize squash every 4 - 6 weeks with abalanced fertiliser . obviate over - fertilizing , as this can go to excessive vine growth and reduced fruit production .
4. Mulching and Weed Control
Mulch around squash plants to retain wet , suppress Mary Jane , andregulate soil temperature . Use organic material such as straw , grass clip , or sliced leaves . dominance weeds by manus - pulling or using a hoe . invalidate using herbicide , as they can damage squelch plants .
5. Pollination and Fruit Set
Squash are monoecious , mean they have both male andfemale flowerson the same plant life . Female peak can be identify by a small , egotistical ovaryat the base of the flower . pollenation takes place when bees or otherinsects transfer pollenfrom themale flowersto the female flowers . To advance pollination , works squelch near other efflorescence plants and obviate using pesticide that can harm pollinators .
6. Pest and Disease Management
Squash can be susceptible to pests and disease , including :
To prevent and manage pests and disease , useorganic pest control methodssuch asneem oil , insecticidal grievous bodily harm , or comrade planting .
7. Harvesting and Storage
Winter squelch , such as butternut and kabocha , are quick to harvest when the skin is intemperate and the stem has turn brown and dry . Summer squash , such as courgette , can be harvest when the fruit is unfaltering and has reached the desired size . depot winter crush in a nerveless , dry placewhere it can be kept for several month . Summer squash should be hive away in the icebox for up to a week .
FAQ
1 . When is the best clip toplant squashin Melbourne?The best fourth dimension toplant squashin Melbourne is fromlate Septemberto early November for summer squash and from October to December for winter squash.2 . How often should I irrigate squash plants?Water squeeze works deeply and infrequently , about once a week during dry weather.3 . Can Igrow squashin pots?Yes , you cangrow squashin pots , but choose alarge container(at least 12 in in diameter ) andprovide adequate supportfor the vines.4 . Why are my squash leaves turning yellow?Yellowing leaves can indicatenutrient deficiency , overwatering , or disease . Check thesoil wet , fertilize if necessary , and inspect the leaves for signaling of pests or disease.5 . What is the best way to control cucumber beetles?Tocontrol cucumber beetles , useorganic pest control methodssuch as neem oil or insecticidal soap . you may alsoplant familiar plantsthat repel beetle , such as marigolds or nasturtium .
