I have heard that squash vines should be cut back in late summer to help the larger squashes ripen up. Or would it be better to leave all of the leaves on the vines so that they can use photosynthesis to produce larger squash and remove all the small squashes that would never have a chance to ripen in time. Does anyone have any expertise in this area?
prepare squash for fall
Most vining crops do better if you cut back blossoms and young fruit that have no chance of ripening so that the vigor of the plant goes toward ripening what's there instead of forming new veggies.
Thanks. So it sounds like cutting back the vines wouldn't help. When the heatwave we're having is over I'll go out and cut off just the blossoms and immature fruit.
I'd cut the vines short, too; otherwise they'll keep trying to blossom. Sorry I wasn't very clear!
Thanks Greenhouse Gal. I've never knew what to do before.
You're welcome. I hope it helps get those squash to ripen for you!
Gently remove the blossoms, rinse them, place a dab of goat cheese inside, batter them, then deep fry them.
It will help the plants, and put a smile on your face!!!
I had then first at a little Greek Bistro near work - at $6.85 for 4!!!,then tried them at home, where I got to eat all I wanted for near nothing!
This message was edited Sep 4, 2010 9:39 AM
This message was edited Sep 4, 2010 11:48 AM
Oh, yum. I've never tried that!
Topping homemade pizzas with squash blossoms is also delish as is topping soups. I don't cut mine back because we have a long season and I want to maximize production. The vines do get to a point where they won't have time to set and cure fruit though.