Butternut squash on trellis_1
Debra
There's nothing like harvesting fresh, delicious vegetables right outside your kitchen door! I've been passionate about organic gardening for over 40 years. Through this website and courses, I share how you, too, can harvest abundant organic food all year-round from small garden beds.
Debra, which side of the trellis do you plant the squash plant and how close to the trellis? I appreciate your article. Instead of using a cattle panel I think I’ll go with 4×8 concrete wire panel. It isn’t as heavy and does rust, so I hope it will work. Thank you.
I don’t think it matters which side I plant the seeds on. And squash grow so quickly and so large, that as long as the seeds are within 6-8 inches or so, you’ll be able to start training the vines on the trellis. Actually, you could plant them even farther than that, but I haven’t seen any reason to do so.
How did you prevent them from dropping off due to weight?
Most squash that only weigh a few pounds don’t need any extra support. But I did have a few squash that weighed over 10 pounds fall off before they were ripe. And nearly all melons should be given support.
Would you be willing to share the construction details of your trellis, including pictures that cover your instructions? I struggle with trellises. It would be so helpful for me. Thank you
I’ll look into creating a free mini video course with the details.
Hi Debra…. from a Florida gardener-.so if i understand you here with butternut squash–only two plants per 16 feet-one unit-(sfg) one on each side–is all i will need—i planted 7 hills inside my 4 by 4( they are just coming up)—should i thin out to only one plant each side of trelis—i would love to have them climb up instead of all over the ground(and garden pathway)–i just love your ideas!
Hi, Louise! Yes, I would usually recommend only 2 butternut squash plants per 4′ x 4′ garden bed – one up each trellis. A small garden bed growing large vining plants can have two trellises – one on the north side, and one on the south. I have grown as many as 4 plants per bed (2 per trellis), but the squash fruit turned out smaller when the plants were crowded this much, and I didn’t harvest any more pounds of squash per bed.
I would gradually thin the plants during the first 2-3 weeks after they germinate. If you have more than one bed, feel free to experiment! What works best in my garden may not be the best option for other locations.
I’m glad you enjoy this website! Best wishes with your garden… ~ Debra