Until when can I sow winter squash?

[Tora]

I got some squash seeds from T&M a few days ago (Nutty Delica squash and the microwavable pumpkin).
Is it too late to sow them?  ???

[Tora]

[Marymary]

I'd give them a go.

[Jeannine]

You are fine Tora, sow them now, it is just the really big ones I would be concerned about

[Tora]

Thank you both!

I'm going to sow them today.  ;)

[Squashfan]

Hi Tora,
I'd say there's no rush, really. You can sow them today. I'm putting my seeds in next week. Last year we put seedlings out about this time, went away for hols, came back and they were dead.  :'( We re-sowed directly into the ground and they came up with no ill effects. They are warm weather fiends and will not tolerate cold, so we err on the side of caution now. Which is good news for those of us who do everything at the last minute!  ;D

[pye]

good news for those of us who do everything at the last minute!  ;D

*raises hand* yep that's me  ;D

I sowed mine today too, it's my first year growing squash, I'm very excited ;D ;D

[Squashfan]

They're a bit addictive Pye, as you can probably tell from my screen name and picture. I try different types each year and spend far too much time agonizing over them to the possible detriment of the rest of the plot! I am a saddo but I love them.  ;D

[Tora]

Thank you, squashfan. :)

I do think squash is addictive! Even a small harvest last year was enough to make me hooked!
I told my OH that I'm planting lots of squashes this year and he wasn't impressed! I think he'd rather be eating spuds than squashes. ::)

Which varieties are your favourite, squashfan? I'm tempted by so many squashes (I keep looking at catalogues :-[)... I wish there was a definitive guide to squash varieties somewhere! :D

[Jeannine]

There is a guide. Written by Amy Goldman,generally considered the authority on squash.

Amy's book.The Compleat Squash ( her spelling) is a fabulous book, not cheap, but has squash from all over the world,clearly shows the families of squash and the photography is wonderful.

Amy also does a very similar book on Melons called Melons for the passionate grower.

Both books I rate extremely high if you are very serious about  squash and melons.Something for your birthday or Christmas wish list perhaps.

ISBN 1-5965-213-1  Melons  US $25

ISBN  1-57965-251-4  Squash  US $40

XX Jeannine

[Tora]

Thanks Jeannine. I've just checked her books on Amazon. Both look very good!
Birthday presents are sorted now! The squash book for my birthday and the melon book for my OH's birthday... :D ::) ;D