Squash

Nutritious and easy to grow, squash is a popular vine crop in home gardens. Squash is divided into two types: summer squash and winter squash. Zucchini, the most popular summer squash, is harvested during the summer. Its tender-skinned fruits are excellent steamed, stuffed, baked or grill. Summer squash has a short shelf life and is usually eaten within days after harvesting. Winter squash, like acorn and butternut squash, have hard rinds and are harvested in the fall. Most winter squash can be stored for several months—and sometimes longer. Squash vines are often planted in hills and grow best in full sun and well-drained soil.