Water plants during extended dry periods. Add organic matter to the soil. In either soil, organic matter will increase plant uptake of water and calcium. Grow squash in raised beds to improve drainage. Squash have separate male and female flowers on the same plant, and pollen must be transferred from the male flowers to the female flowers by bees.
Poor pollination can result in improperly shaped fruit.
Observe plants closely when blooming begins to determine if bees are present. Use insecticides late in the evening to prevent killing bees. For optimum quality, harvest while fruits are tender and still have a shiny or glossy appearance. When growing conditions are favorable, harvest the crop daily or every other day. Harvest crookneck and straightneck varieties when fruit is 1 to 2 inches in diameter.