Daylight Needs for Squash

Sunlight

• Squash need a lot of light to grow. They need to be planted somewhere where they will receive a large amount of direct sunlight -- no less than six hours a day. If they do not receive enough sunlight, you may find that your squash blossoms beautifully but does not produce fruit or produces small fruit that shrivel and fall off the plant within a few days.

Climate

• As squash are a warm season crop they not only need lots of direct sunlight but also require warm temperatures for proper growth and germination. Seeds germinate in temperatures between 60 degrees F and 105 degrees F, with 95 degrees F being the best temperature for germination, according to Cornell University. When sowing squash seeds directly into the garden, wait until frost is no longer a danger and soil temperatures reach at least 65 degrees F, with temperatures of 70 degrees F and higher more preferable. Squash plants are very sensitive to frosty temperatures. With proper soil heat and adequate moisture, squash seeds germinate approximately one week after sowing.

Too Much Sun

• Although they like warm temperatures and direct sunlight, squash plants react badly if they receive too much. If there is too much, intense sunlight, the squash leaves might wither resulting in less nutrients being absorbed through photosynthesis, which can result in smaller fruit being produced. The best remedy is to provide some form of shading in the afternoon to lower the amount of direct sunlight they receive.

Contributing Factors

• If you are planting your squash in an area that receives a lot of direct sunlight, consider planting them away from reflective objects, such as bright walls which only add to the amount of Sun radiation they receive. Not only will too much sunlight stunt the growth of the squash, but it can also result in Sun damage, such as sunburn.