Squash Harvesting, Curing and Storage

07/07/21 • 6 min

How do the different Cucurbita species indicate ripeness? Subtle cues signal that the time is right for harvest. What is squash curing? Under optimal conditions, Cucurbita spp can be enjoy all winter!

Opening song: Beeloved by Carmen Porter (www.carmenporter.com)

References:

https://www.nda.agric.za/docs/Brochures/PG_Squash.pdf

Opening song: Beeloved by Carmen Porter (www.carmenporter.com)

References:

https://www.nda.agric.za/docs/Brochures/PG_Squash.pdf

Previous Episode

Beetles, Bugs and Borers

Introducing three common, North American, pest insects that love squash as much as I do! When do they emerge? Where do they lay their eggs? What problems can they cause if their populations are high? What can be done to reduce their numbers?

Opening song: Beeloved by Carmen Porter (https://carmenporter.com)

References:

https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/VEG/BEAN/striped_cucumber_beetle.html

https://extension.psu.edu/why-are-my-cucurbits-wilting

https://ipm.illinois.edu/diseases/rpds/926.pdf

https://rodaleinstitute.org/science/articles/verification-of-parasitism-of-striped-cucumber-beetles-and-bacterial-wilt-of-cucurbits-using-molecular-analyses/

https://www.thomas.k-state.edu/lawnandgarden/docs/squashbugs.pdf

https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/squash-bug-anasa-tristis/

https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/veg/leaf/squash_bug.htm

https://extension.psu.edu/squash-vine-borer

https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/veg/leaf/squash_vine_borer.htm

Next Episode

Squash Seed Saving

What is the difference between a hybrid and an heirloom? How can you ensure that your saved squash seeds will grow true to the parent plant? Seed saving is the reclaiming of seed sovereignty!

Opening tune: 'Beeloved' by Carmen Porter (www.carmenporter.com)

References:

https://www.seedsavers.org/site/pdf/grow-save-squash.pdf

https://www.johnnyseeds.com/growers-library/tools-supplies/seed-storage-guide.html?q=seed%20viability