The fruits of the MARIGOLD squash are yellow in color with a pretty scalloped edge. They are ideal for growing zucchini in vegetable gardens and farms. To sow them, here are some tips:
Sowing Indoors: In mid-to-late spring, just before the last frost, sow seeds 1 inch (2 cm) deep in cells or small pots filled with potting soil. Cover them with a clear plastic bag or lidded propagator and place them on a warm windowsill.
Direct outdoor sowing: In early summer, plant two seeds in a 2-inch (5 cm) deep hole, 3 feet (90 cm) apart. Cover with soil, water and protect under a cover for more warmth.
Summer zucchini tastes best when young. Harvest by twisting or cutting the fruit. Picking young encourages the production of more flowers and fruit, and avoids having to deal with gigantic, bland squashes later in the season.
For large winter squash, limit each plant to three fruits by pinching off the growing tips of the plants and removing any unwanted flowers. Winter squash should be left on the plant to develop. At the end of summer, remove the leaves that shade the fruits and allow their skins to harden in the sun. Harvest before the first frost by cutting, leaving a length of stem attached. Store them in a dry, frost-free place and they will keep for several months.
