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Fertilizing winter squash #878715

Asked July 25, 2024, 11:18 AM EDT

I haven't in past years given my winter squash the last feeding that's recommended in August/September. For the second feeding I use 44-0-0 just as the vines begin to grow. For the last feeding, should I attempt to move the vines closer to the original plant and use the same procedure. I've seen that it's recommended to place fertilizer around the original plant site and water in. This isn't my perferred procedure as the vines are like a jungle. Can this final feeding be important for hastening ripening? Some years I would like the squash to be riper. Also, when is the best time for the final feeding in MN? Right now I could move the vines a short distance and apply 40-0-0 as I do for the second feeding. Now is too soon but by August I may still be able to move the vines without too much disturbance. Or is applying the fertilizer close to it origin much more beneficial? Thank you.

Anoka County Minnesota

Expert Response

Sorry for the delayed response on this question.

Using a high nitrogen fertilizer at planting time is good for your squash. The nitrogen helps them to grow strong stems and plenty of leaves. I would not recommend applying that strength now when your plants are producing fruit. When the plants begin to bear fruit you can side dress them with a 10-10-10 fertilizer.

You do not need to move the vines. The plants take up water and nutrients through their roots (at the site of planting). Some stems can develop roots further out but they  are supplemental and not the main feeders of the vines. 

https://extension.umn.edu/vegetables/pumpkins-and-winter-squash#:~:text=In%20Minnesota%2C%20planting%20is%20typically,five%20to%20six%20feet%20apart.

https://ag.umass.edu/sites/ag.umass.edu/files/fact-sheets/pdf/pumpkins_and_squash.pdf

Deb Reierson Replied August 11, 2024, 12:54 PM EDT

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