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Early Prolific Straightneck

Cucurbita pepo

$3.99

7 g Approximately

The Early Prolific Straightneck Summer Squash (Cucurbita pepo) is a highly productive yellow squash variety, celebrated for its mild, buttery flavor and vigorous growth. Known for its elongated, slightly club-shaped fruits, this All-America Selections-winning squash is a staple for summer gardens. The plants are adaptable to various growing conditions, producing high yields even in shorter seasons.

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66 in stock

  • Days to Germination: 4-14 days
  • Days to Maturity: 50-60 days
  • Plant Height: 18-36 inches
  • Sun Preference: Full sun
  • Soil pH: 5.5-6.8
  • Spacing: 24-48 inches apart in rows 3-4 feet apart

Starting Indoors:

  • Timing: Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost date.
  • Containers: Use pots at least 3-4 inches deep for strong root development.
  • Depth: Sow seeds 1 inch deep, planting 2 seeds per pot.
  • Conditions: Keep the soil at 70-85¡F and provide 12-16 hours of light per day.
  • Thinning: Clip the weaker seedling if both germinate.

Transplanting Outdoors:

  • Timing: Move seedlings outdoors when the danger of frost has passed, spacing them 24-48 inches apart.
  • Preparation: Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week.
  • Site: Choose a sunny, well-drained area with enriched soil. Compost or organic matter will support strong growth.

Direct Sowing:

  • Timing: Sow seeds directly when soil temperature is above 70¡F.
  • Depth and Spacing: Sow seeds 1 inch deep and space plants 24-48 inches apart, or in mounds for improved drainage and ventilation.

Care Instructions

  • Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture, providing 1-2 inches of water per week. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of powdery mildew.
  • Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and control weeds.
  • Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, especially during the fruiting stage.
  • Pest Management: Monitor for pests like squash bugs and vine borers. Use row covers, hand-pick insects, or apply organic pesticides as needed.

Harvesting and Storage

  • When to Harvest: Pick fruits when they are 6-8 inches long for the best texture and flavor. Frequent harvesting encourages continuous production.
  • Storage: Store harvested squash in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Squash can also be sliced and frozen for longer storage.

Early Prolific Straightneck Summer Squash is a wonderful choice for summer recipes, from grilling to casseroles. Its quick growth and high yield make it a fantastic addition to any garden, bringing bright color, delicious flavor, and versatility to the table.