Plant squash when the soil is warm and the weather is settled. It is a tropical plant that cannot stand cold weather.
Summer squash does best tin well drained soil, high in organic matter.
Transplants may be used, but will set back considerable when the sensitive roots are disturbed. Once fruiting begins, gardeners need to be vigilant, harvesting daily. Be careful not to bruise the fruits. Use a knife to cut the stem and avoid damaging the plant. Sudden wilting of vine tips indicates an infestation of squash borers.