Cucurbits Planting Calendar
Planting & Setup
Cucurbits are vigorous, fast-growing plants that thrive in warm soil, full sun and love heat. This family includes cucumbers, squash, zucchini, melons, and pumpkins, all of which require space, strong trellis support, and nutrient-rich soil. Cucurbits benefit from regular harvesting, and preventative care for powdery mildew. With the right setup, they are among the most productive crops in the garden. These plants are sensitive to cold and should only be planted after soil temperatures rise in late spring. Cucurbits belong in compost-rich beds where they have the nutrients and space they need to spread and produce heavily.
| Crop Name | How To Plant | Spring Planting | Fall Planting | Germinate Indoors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cucumber | Either | 5/10–6/15 | None | Optional |
| Cantaloupe | Either | 5/15–6/15 | None | Optional |
| Summer Squash | Either | 5/10–6/20 | None | Optional |
| Zucchini | Either | 5/10–6/20 | None | Optional |
| Winter Squash | Either | 5/15–6/15 | None | Optional |
| Watermelon | Either | 5/15–6/15 | None | Optional |
Growing Conditions
| Crop Name | Sunlight | Temperature Tolerances | Ideal Soil Temperature | Seed Depth | Days to Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cucumber | Full sun | 50°F–95°F | 65–85°F | 0.5–1 in. | 50–70 |
| Cantaloupe | Full sun | 50°F–95°F | 70–90°F | 1 in. | 80–100 |
| Summer Squash | Full sun | 50°F–95°F | 65–85°F | 1 in. | 45–60 |
| Zucchini | Full sun | 50°F–95°F | 65–85°F | 1 in. | 45–60 |
| Winter Squash | Full sun | 50°F–95°F | 70–90°F | 1 in. | 80–110 |
| Watermelon | Full sun | 55°F–95°F | 70–95°F | 1 in. | 80–100 |
Tromboncino squash is not attacked by the squash vine borer moth. This makes it one of the most reliable summer squash options. It grows vigorously on a trellis and produces continuously through summer and fall.
Seeds or seedlings? Plant either seeds or seedlings for all cultivars. Beginners should plant seedlings.
Pests and diseases: Spray all Curcubits weekly with organic biofungicide for powdery mildew prevention and management.
Cucumber: Pick hidden cucumbers before they get over-ripe and turn yellow which can signal the plant to stop or slow fruit production.
Zucchini: Although they are huge plants with enormous leaves and fruit, they don’t need a trellis. Planting in large containers or in a separate bed is best. Many gardeners prefer to pick zucchinis at 12” long or less.
Trellis is needed for cucumbers, summer squash, and winter squash. View this video with a wide range of trellis designs you can buy or make yourself. Cucurbits need a very sturdy and strong trellis. Squash and melons can also grow on the ground or on a lawn without hurting the grass.
