![Scallop Hybrid Mix Summer Squash](https://gurneys.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/73590-300x300.jpg)
Most people grow summer squash, such as zucchini, for the vegetables. But I grow squash for the blossoms. Squash blossoms are delightful, with a taste that is both herbal and floral. I’ve eaten them alone and dipped in hummus. I’ve seen them on menus- one even offered a fried version- but I like them plain and they are one of my favorite edible flowers. Of course, it’s silly to just plant a vegetable and eat the flowers, which means I also have become a fan of cooking with summer squash, especially pattypan squash which is both delicious and cute. I thought planting pattypan squash would get my kids to eat squash, mainly due to the cuteness factor, but no such luck- they still prefer to eat zucchini in my zucchini bread muffins (which are just fancy vegetable versions of cake).
Summer squash are relatively easy to grow but do require a fair amount of space in the garden, as they are vining plants. They are prolific producers and you will harvest squash from early summer to first frost. One variety- yellow crookneck squash- can even be grown in containers, as it is more of a bush-variety. Before planting, work compost into the area, about two heaping spadefuls at each site. Summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) seeds should be planted 8 inches apart, or if you are transplanting seedlings, plant them 3 feet apart. In anywhere from 50 to 70 days, you should be ready to harvest- and have a variety of shape and colors to slice up and serve along cold dips or sautee to serve alongside grilled chicken all summer long!
![Jackpot Hybrid Zucchini Summer Squash](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.gurneys.com/images/475/15036.jpg)
Zucchini
Jackpot Hybrid is ready in 42 days! Not only that, it grows on space-saving vines (only 30 inches!) and is spineless. Pick young for best texture and taste.
Black Magic is ready in 50 days and produces all summer long. Semi-spineless vines yield huge crops.
Pattypan
Scallop Hybrid Mix is an excellent choice for a variety of baby scallop squash! Moonbeam White, Sunbeam, and Total Eclipse are included in this seed mix that is ready for harvest in 42-49 days.
![Gentry Hybrid Summer Squash](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.gurneys.com/images/475/66557A.jpg)
Yellow
Gentry Hybrid yields semi-crookneck fruits- even in the toughest summer conditions- in 44 days.
Early Prolific Straightneck is a long-time favorite for eating, with creamy flesh and a delicate taste. Ready in 42 days.
Hybrids
There are quite a few newish interesting hybrids, so check gurneys.com for a lot more options. A few that caught my eye:
Partenon Variety sets fruit even without pollination, and does well in containers, making it perfect for screened-in porches and lanais.
Eclipse Variety is very versatile- pick it young to use on kebabs, or pick it mature and stuff it or grill it!