Summer Squash Seeds,
Zucchini Early Prolific Straightneck

Direct sow Early Prolific Straightneck seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 70°F. In short-season climates, start seeds indoors 2–4 weeks before your final frost and transplant after hardening off. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Sow seeds 1 inch deep in rich, well-draining soil in a sunny location. Space plants 24 to 36 inches apart, or plant in hills spaced 3–4 feet apart. Start indoors using biodegradable pots to minimize transplant shock. Keep soil evenly moist during germination.

Water deeply and consistently, especially during flowering and fruiting. Mulch to retain moisture and prevent weed growth. Fertilize with compost or organic fertilizer every 3–4 weeks. Harvest fruits young and often for peak texture and taste. Monitor for squash bugs and cucumber beetles, and use organic pest control methods when needed.

Note that there are four different species of squash: Cucurbita maxima, C. pepo, C. moschata, and C. mixta. They will not cross pollinate with each other, so it is possible to grow one of each species for seed saving without worrying about cross pollination. If you are planning to save seeds from several varieties of the same species, you can bag the blossoms and hand pollinate to avoid crossing.

• Let fruits fully ripen on the vine until the skin is tough and yellowed.
• Harvest and cure squash in a dry, warm location for 2–3 weeks.
• Cut open fruit and scoop out mature seeds.
• Rinse seeds clean of pulp and lay them out to dry in a single layer.
• Dry for 2–3 weeks in a well-ventilated area.
• Store in a cool, dry, labeled airtight container.