Best Types of Squash to Grow in Maryland

Squash is a versatile and productive vegetable that grows well in Maryland’s warm, humid summers and mild spring and fall seasons. With Maryland’s varied growing zones, which range from USDA zones 6a to 8a, most squash varieties can thrive, given the right planting time and care. Squash is broadly categorized into two main types: summer squash and winter squash. Here’s a guide to the best varieties of each for growing in Maryland.

1. Summer Squash Varieties

Summer squash is harvested while the skin is still tender and immature, making it perfect for sautéing, grilling, and fresh dishes. They grow quickly and can be planted multiple times throughout the season in Maryland.

  • Zucchini Zucchini is one of the most popular summer squashes and thrives in Maryland’s warm climate. It grows best when planted after the last frost (mid to late April) and can be harvested within 45-55 days. Varieties like Black Beauty and Costata Romanesco are favorites in Maryland gardens due to their productivity and disease resistance.

    • Days to Maturity: 45-50 days

  • Yellow Crookneck Squash Known for its curved neck and vibrant yellow color, yellow crookneck squash grows well in Maryland’s summer months. It has a sweet, buttery flavor and matures quickly, making it an excellent choice for quick harvests.

    • Varieties to Try: Early Summer Crookneck, Dixie Hybrid
    • Days to Maturity: 50-60 days

  • Pattypan Squash (Scallop Squash) Pattypan squash has a unique flying-saucer shape and a mild, slightly nutty flavor. These squashes grow quickly and are easy to care for, making them perfect for Maryland’s backyard gardens. Their compact growth also makes them suitable for smaller spaces.

    • Varieties to Try: Sunburst, Benning’s Green Tint
    • Days to Maturity: 45-55 days

2. Winter Squash Varieties

Winter squash is harvested when fully mature and has a hard rind. It stores well, making it a great crop for later in the season. Winter squash varieties need a longer growing season, which Maryland’s climate can accommodate.

  • Butternut Squash Butternut squash is a winter favorite known for its sweet, nutty flavor and versatility in soups, casseroles, and roasting. It grows well in Maryland’s warm summers and is ready for harvest in late fall. It stores well, allowing for use throughout the winter months.

    • Varieties to Try: Waltham Butternut, Early Butternut
    • Days to Maturity: 90-110 days

  • Acorn Squash Acorn squash is another winter squash that thrives in Maryland’s climate. It has a slightly nutty flavor and a smooth, moist texture, making it perfect for baking or roasting. Acorn squash can be planted in late spring and will be ready for harvest by early fall.

    • Varieties to Try: Table Queen, Honey Bear
    • Days to Maturity: 70-90 days

  • Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti squash is known for its stringy flesh, which can be used as a pasta substitute. It grows well in Maryland, especially in well-drained, fertile soil. This squash requires a long growing season, but Maryland’s warm summers provide the perfect environment for it to flourish.

    • Varieties to Try: Tivoli, Vegetable Spaghetti
    • Days to Maturity: 85-100 days

  • Hubbard Squash Hubbard squash is a large, flavorful winter squash with a tough skin, making it ideal for long-term storage. Maryland’s long summers and early fall provide the perfect growing window for this variety. It’s excellent for purees, pies, and soups due to its rich, starchy flesh.

    • Varieties to Try: Blue Hubbard, Golden Hubbard
    • Days to Maturity: 90-110 days

3. Growing Tips for Squash in Maryland

  • Planting Time: Summer squash can be planted after the last frost date in mid to late April. For winter squash, aim to plant in late spring to ensure they have enough time to mature before the first frost in fall, typically by early May.

  • Soil Preparation: Squash prefers well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. Amending Maryland’s sometimes heavy clay soils with compost can improve drainage and provide essential nutrients. A soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8 is ideal.

  • Spacing: Both summer and winter squash require plenty of space to grow. Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart. For vine-type winter squash, allow even more room, as the vines can spread out significantly.

  • Watering: Squash plants need consistent watering, especially during hot summer days. Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and other fungal diseases.

  • Pest and Disease Management: Common pests that affect squash in Maryland include squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and vine borers. Using row covers early in the season and practicing crop rotation can help reduce pest pressure. Powdery mildew and other fungal diseases can be mitigated with proper spacing for good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

Conclusion

Squash, whether summer or winter varieties, is well-suited to Maryland’s climate, with many types thriving in the state’s growing conditions. Zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan are great summer squash options, while butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash are excellent winter choices. By planting at the right time and providing the right care, Maryland gardeners can enjoy bountiful squash harvests throughout the growing season.