Gentry Crookneck Squash

Growing Instructions

Growing Gentry crookneck squash is very much like growing zucchini or other summer squash. It is a warm-season crop, so plant it after your last frost when the soil is warming up (ideally above 60°). Since squash germinate quickly and don’t like their roots disturbed by transplanting, it's recommended that you direct sow seeds. Choose a location with full sun (at least 6 hours) and rich, well-drained soil. Squash tend to be heavy feeders so we recommend you amend your soil with compost to give the plants a nutrient boost. Sow the seeds about 1 inch deep. You can plant them in rows (spacing seeds about 2-3 feet apart, then thinning to one plant every 2-3 feet) or in hills (3-4 seeds per hill, thin to the best one or two). Even though plants will have a compact bush habit, each one will still spread a few feet wide, so give them room for nutrients and airflow. Keep the soil consistently moist as the seeds germinate and seedlings grow.

Harvest, Storage, and Use

Gentry squash grows rapidly once it starts flowering. You’ll typically get your first squash about 6-7 weeks after planting. The key to the best flavor and texture is to harvest the fruits when they are small to medium-sized. Fruits are best harvested at about 5"-6" long. At this stage, the skin is glossy and tender and the seeds inside are barely noticeable. To harvest, use a knife or pruners to cut the squash from the plant, leaving a short stem attached to avoid damage to the plant so it will continue producing. In peak season you may be picking every day or two, and it's important to harvest frequently. If squash are left on the plant too long, they can get overly large and become less tender and tasty.

Gentry crookneck is a versatile squash in the kitchen. Slice and sauté with onions and garlic for a quick side, or bread the slices with cornmeal and fry them for a Southern classic. For a heartier dish, many folks love to bake creamy squash casseroles or stuff the squash with rice, herbs, and cheese. Because Gentry has a smooth, tender skin, there’s no need to peel it as the skin actually helps the slices hold together when cooking. It can also be used as a stand in for zucchini or any other summer squash. Stored in the refrigerator, unwashed squash will keep for about a week, but they are best within the first 3-4 days. To freeze for later use, slice or grate and blanch the squash for a couple of minutes, then pack in freezer bags.