While squash might not be the flashiest vegetable in the garden, it’s a true unsung hero. Whether you’re growing it for summer meals or winter storage, squash is one of the most versatile crops you can add to your Florida garden. I’ll share my top tips for growing squash in Florida, along with a few of my favorite varieties.
Summer Squash vs. Winter Squash: What’s the Difference?
Squash comes in two main categories: summer squash and winter squash. But don’t be fooled by the names—these don’t refer to when they’re grown, but rather when they’re harvested and eaten. In Florida, gardeners typically plant squash in very early spring or fall to avoid the intense summer heat. Whether you’re aiming for summer squash like zucchini or hardier winter varieties, both have a place in the Florida garden.
Summer Squash: Light, Fresh, and Versatile
Summer squash, such as zucchini and yellow squash, are soft-skinned vegetables that grow quickly and are perfect for tossing into a variety of dishes. The thin skin and mild flavor make them ideal for everything from salads and stir-fries to being a base for low-carb noodles. One of my favorite ways to use zucchini is in zucchini bread. It’s a sweet, moist treat that rivals banana or pumpkin bread and sneaks in a bit of extra nutrition.
In Florida, we grow summer squash primarily in the cooler months of early spring and fall. This timing avoids the scorching summer temperatures that can stress out the plants. By planting early, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest before the heat or pests have a chance to take over. Remember, summer squash has a short growing period, so you’ll be enjoying your fresh veggies in no time.
Winter Squash: The Sweet Staple Crop
Butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash develop thicker, harder skins, which allow you to store them for months after harvest. You can pick them immature and eat them like summer squash, but letting them fully mature on the plant enhances their flavor. This makes them sweeter and more robust.
One of the reasons I love growing winter squash in Florida is its potential as a long-term storage crop. After curing, it can last throughout the winter months, giving you access to homegrown vegetables well into the new year. Whether you roast it with seasonings like salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder or use it in soups and casseroles, winter squash is a reliable staple that’s well worth the effort.
Overcoming Challenges in Growing Squash in Florida
Let’s face it—growing squash in Florida comes with its challenges. From the short growing seasons to relentless pests, you’ve got to be strategic about how you plant and care for your squash.
- Pests and Diseases: Squash bugs, pickleworms, and powdery mildew are the most common challenges. Protecting your plants with row covers early on helps reduce bug infestations. Regular monitoring can help you stay on top of any problems. For powdery mildew, a simple mix of water and hydrogen peroxide can help keep your plants healthy.
- Starting Early: Timing is everything when it comes to growing squash in Florida. Because our summers are so hot, it’s best to start your squash in early spring or late fall when the temperatures are more moderate. Start seeds indoors in pots to give them a head start. Then transplant them into the garden once they’ve developed strong roots.
- Succession Planting: Another good strategy is succession planting, where you plant in intervals to spread out your harvest. This can help you get a longer season of production, especially when pests or diseases take down a plant.
- Watering and Mulching: Florida’s climate can be both hot and humid, so be sure to water your squash consistently. Aim to water the base of the plants to avoid wetting the leaves. Mulching around the base can help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool, which is especially important when the temperatures start to rise.
How to Harvest and Store Squash
Knowing when to harvest is key to getting the best flavor and texture from your squash. For summer squash, you’ll want to pick them while they’re still small and tender, typically around 6-8 inches long. Waiting too long can result in tough skins and large seeds that are less enjoyable to eat.
Winter squash, on the other hand, needs to be left on the vine until the skin hardens and the color deepens. A good rule of thumb is to wait for a strong, deep color change rather than using the traditional “fingernail test.” Once harvested, leave a long stem on the squash to prevent rot. Then let it cure in the sun for about a week. After curing, store your winter squash in a cool, dry place—somewhere like a pantry. This will allow them to last for several months, giving you a homegrown vegetable supply all winter long.
Favorite Squash Varieties for Florida
Not all squash varieties are suited for the Florida climate, but there are some standout options that grow well here. My top picks include:
- Seminole Pumpkin: This native squash is one of the most resilient varieties for Florida, tolerating heat and pests.
- Tahitian Melon Squash: A great tropical variety that performs well in our warm climate.
- Waltham Butternut: For butternut squash lovers, this variety is a reliable producer with a rich, sweet flavor.
- Table Queen Acorn Squash: Perfect for those who love roasting squash halves with a bit of butter and brown sugar.
- Trivoli Spaghetti Squash: If you’re looking for a healthy pasta alternative, this variety is perfect for Florida’s growing conditions.
- Tromboncino Squash: This unique, long-necked variety can be harvested young like a summer squash or allowed to mature as a winter squash. It’s a versatile, pest-resistant option for Florida gardeners, and its vining habit makes it ideal for trellising in small spaces.
Moschata Varieties: The Best Defense Against Squash Vine Borers
If you’ve struggled with pests like squash vine borers in Florida, Cucurbita moschata varieties are your best bet. These varieties, such as Seminole pumpkin and Tromboncino squash, have thicker, more resilient stems than other types of squash, which makes them much less susceptible to squash vine borers.
Even better, moschata varieties have a growth habit where they root along the stems as they spread. This not only makes them more resistant to pest damage, but it also helps the plant recover quickly if any section of the vine is compromised. As the vines touch the soil, they’ll root in place, giving the plant extra strength and increasing the chances of a successful, bountiful harvest.
Because of these natural defenses, moschata varieties are the ideal choice for growing squash in Florida. Their ability to thrive in our climate while resisting common pests makes them a reliable and productive option for any Florida garden.
Squash might not get the attention it deserves, but its versatility, productivity, and ability to store for long periods make it an essential addition to any Florida garden. With the right care and timing, growing squash in Florida can be a rewarding experience, giving you fresh vegetables from spring through winter. Happy gardening, and enjoy your squash!
