When to Harvest Squash and Melons?

Harvesting Summer Squash

• Summer squash grows on bush-like plants that don't spread like other types of melons and squash. Zucchini, yellow crookneck and yellow straightneck are examples of summer squash. For best results, summer squash should be harvested when they are small. According to the University of Illinois Extension, elongated types of summer squash should be picked when they are two inches in diameter or smaller, usually at a length of about eight inches. They shouldn't be allowed to grow hard and large. Wear gloves when harvesting this type of squash, because stems can be prickly and can scratch hands and arms.

Harvesting Winter Squash

• Winter squash is harvested after the skin has hardened into a strong rind that can't be punctured by fingernails. Most are vining plants that need quite a bit of room to grow. Once the outer skins of these squash are hard and have turned a deep color, they are ready to harvest. Winter squash should be harvested in the fall, before heavy frost hits. Approximately two inches of stem should be left attached whenever possible. Examples of winter squash include butternut squash, acorn squash and spaghetti squash.

Harvesting Watermelons

• It can be somewhat tricky knowing when to harvest watermelons. There are several factors that indicate when a watermelon is mature. The bottom of the watermelon turns a slightly yellow color, while the surface color becomes dull. At the top of the melon near the point of attachment, curly tendrils turn dry and brown. The skin feels rough and can't be easily penetrated by a fingernail.

Other Types of Melons

• Cantaloupes, also known as muskmelons, are ready to harvest when they detach easily from the vine. These melons turn slightly yellow when they ripen, and they develop netting over the rind. Honeydew melons are ready to harvest when the fruit becomes light green or yellow or when the rind exhibits yellow streaks. Pumpkins are ready to harvest when they are completely orange and the rind is hard. Harvesting all melons requires careful handling, because bruised or damaged melons tend to rot quickly