How to Grow Italian Cucuzza

Select a site. Squash are vine crops and require ample space for adequate growth. Know how many vines you want to plant and plan accordingly. Summer squash are not particular about soil type, but they do require a site with proper drainage. Full sun is also necessary for proper growth.

Plant your seeds. Cucuzza can be planted in rows or in hills. Plant two to three seeds 24 to 36 inches apart if you plant in rows. Thin the seedlings and leave only one strong seedling once they emerge. Plant four to six seedlings per hill with hills about 45 inches apart. Once the seedlings emerge, save the best two per hill and pull or cut the others. A first crop can be planted in the spring, just after the danger of frost disappears, and a second crop can be planted in early July.

Mulch your squash. In colder areas, mulch can help the spring crops produce earlier fruit and can help late-season fruit last through an early freeze. Black plastic mulch keeps soil the warmest, but organic mulches like wood chips will also help keep the soil warm and conserve moisture.

Fertilize after the first bloom. Squash are not heavy feeders and will produce well even in unfertilized soil. You can, however, fertilize with 10-10-10 fertilizer after female flowers begin to bloom. Adjust fertilizer amounts according to the manufacturer's directions.

Irrigate regularly. Water your cucuzza deeply at least twice a week. About an inch of water per week is adequate for healthy development. Water in the morning and avoid getting foliage wet when you water. Wet leaves are prone to fungal infection.