Squash

Squash hates to be cold. Wait until all danger of frost is over to seed all varieties in the garden. "They won't really do well until soil and air temperatures are above 60°F," says Steve Bellavia, of Johnny's Selected Seeds. He recommends using cloche or frame protection in cold climates for the first few weeks.

For early squash, start seedlings indoors two to four weeks before your last frost date. Transplant seedlings carefully, avoiding disturbance of the root ball.

Plant squash in hills three feet apart, in rows 36 to 60 inches apart. (If you're short on space, grow Delicata squash in a large container.) Soil should be fertile, composted, and well drained. Plant seeds about one inch deep.

Plants love lots of compost and will produce better if well fed. When the first blooms appear, apply a small amount of fertilizer as a sidedress application and water thoroughly. After harvest begins, fertilize occasionally for vigorous growth and lots of fruits.

Bacterial wilt and black rot are two squash diseases that can be prevented with fertile soil and good irrigation.

Insect pests -- cucumber beetles, squash bugs, and vine borers -- are foiled by the use of floating row covers as well as insecticides. If these pests are a problem in your garden, keep borders well mowed, and collect and kill as many bugs and eggs as possible. (Use a toothpick and carry a container. One hour a day for five days should do it.) Plant nasturtiums between hills as a natural deterrent, or encourage (or import) predators such as ladybugs and praying mantises.