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Growing Squash in Containers
Whether you want to grow summer squash, winter squash, or a decorative variety, growing squash in containers is a great option for anyone with limited space. In addition to saving room in your garden, growing squash in containers can help the squash grow better by deterring ground pests and making it easier to keep your plants properly watered and fertilized.
What You’ll Need
First, you’ll need to gather the following:
Squash Seeds
Bush varieties are ideal for containers since they grow in a more compact way, but you can also grow vining varieties in larger areas. To do so, you can set up a trellis for vertical growing or allow them to grow up and out of their containers and onto the ground.
If you want to keep them in a more confined space, here are a few good bush varieties. Keep in mind that even the smallest varieties will still grow to be quite large!
Bush Yellow Squash (Check out the full post on growing yellow squash in containers.)
Container
All squash need large containers. You can use a large decorative pot, a grow bag, or even a regular 5-gallon bucket with holes drilled into the bottom.
Try to grow them in a container that’s at least 2 feet in diameter and 1 foot deep, with at least 5 gallons worth of space per plant. Two plants in the same container would need a 10-gallon container.
In general, it’s best to use as large a container as you can. Squashes require plenty of drainage, so make sure you drill extra holes in the bottom if the container you use doesn’t already come with one.
Potting Soil/Fertilizer
Use a high-quality, well-draining potting soil for your squash. You can add compost or fertilizer to your potting soil to improve the soil quality even more. As always, never use regular garden soil in your pot.
Possible Additions
If you want to grow your vining squash variety vertically, get a trellis. A large, heavy-duty tomato cage can be a great option.
Consider gathering gravel or rocks for the bottom of your container.
Planting Instructions
First, consider placement! Your squash container will be heavy from the start, and it will only get heavier as time goes on. Pick a spot with plenty of open space (at least 3 feet of space on every side) that receives around 7 hours of sunlight per day. A south facing deck or patio is a great option. Temperature-wise, it will need to live in an area that hovers in the mid-70s or higher.
If you have some, layer rocks or gravel in the bottom of your container to help with drainage. Then add potting soil until there’s only about an inch left from the top. Use your finger to make one or two 1-inch deep holes near the center of the pot. Leave 2-3 inches of space between each hole.
Drop the seeds in, cover with soil, and pack down gently. Water lightly.
Care for Squash in Containers
Since your squash is in a container, it will need more water than one growing in the ground. Water it whenever the top two inches of soil are dry.
As with all plants, they’ll benefit more from morning and evening waterings than midday ones. Watering the potting soil (without getting any water on the leaves or stems) can prevent mildew.
Consider using fertilizer on your squash every few weeks to make sure it continues getting the nutrients it needs to thrive. The right fertilizer can help with overall yield and make it easier for your plants to defend against diseases.
Consider growing flowers nearby to encourage pollination if your squash plants are outdoors. Nasturtiums or other squash companion plants that encourage pollinators are great options!
If you’re growing squash in containers indoors, you’ll have to pollinate the flowers by hand. Squash have male and female flowers, so use a light paintbrush or other tool to gently dust pollen from the male onto the female. You can usually tell the difference by identifying the small squash at the base of the female, but if you’re having trouble, here are a few more ways to tell males from females.
Once your squash reach the size specified on the seed packet, they’re ready to harvest!
Enjoy Your Squash!
Growing squash in containers, whether indoors or outside, can be a fun and rewarding experience. Enjoy your fresh squash!
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