Squash

Squash, (genus Cucurbita), genus of flowering plants in the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae), many of which are widely cultivated as vegetables and for livestock feed. Squashes are native to the New World, where they were cultivated by indigenous peoples before European settlement.

Squash plants require full sun, fertile soil, and sufficient moisture. The use of well composted material mixed into the soil is recommended. Summer and winter squash grow best in fertile, well-drained soil containing high amounts of organic matter in areas of full sun.