Allow 5 to 6 feet between hills. When the young plants are well-established, thin each hill to the best two or three plants. Allow five feet between rows. Squash plants should be kept free from weeds by hoeing and shallow cultivation. Irrigate if an extended dry period occurs in early summer.
Bees are necessary for pollinating squash and pumpkins and are killed by insecticides.
If insecticides are used, they should be applied in late afternoon or early evening after the bees stop visiting blossoms for the day. Winter squash can be harvested whenever the fruits have turned a deep, solid color and the rind is hard. Harvest the main part of the crop in September or October, before heavy frosts hit your area. Cut squash from the vines carefully, leaving two inches of stem attached if possible. Avoid cuts and bruises when handling.