When planting squash, the spacing depends on the type of squash and its growth habit:
- Bush varieties: Space plants about 90 cm (3 feet) apart to allow enough room for the plants to spread
. Some sources suggest that bush zucchini can be planted as close as 18 inches apart if doing intensive gardening, but 3 feet is more typical for healthy growth
- Trailing or vining varieties (like winter squash): These need more space, about 1.5 meters (5 feet) apart, or even 4 to 6 feet between mounds to accommodate their longer vines
- For planting in mounds, space mounds 3 to 4 feet apart for summer squash, and 4 to 6 feet apart for winter squash
- When planting seeds in rows, space seeds 4 to 6 inches apart in the row, with rows about 3 feet apart, then thin seedlings to 12 to 15 inches apart once established
- Squash seeds should be planted about ½ to 1 inch deep
In summary, a good general guideline is:
- Bush squash: 3 feet apart
- Trailing/vining squash: 5 to 6 feet apart
This spacing helps ensure good airflow, reduces disease risk (like powdery mildew), and allows the plants to grow large and productive
Summary Table
Squash Type| Plant Spacing| Row/Mound Spacing| Seed Depth
---|---|---|---
Bush squash| ~3 feet (90 cm)| Rows 3 feet apart| ½ to 1 inch deep
Trailing/vining| 5 to 6 feet (1.5-1.8 m)| Mounds 4 to 6 feet apart| ½ to 1
inch deep
Intensive bush zucchini| 18 inches (45 cm)| -| -
This spacing allows the plants to develop fully without overcrowding
