Question
I started a square foot garden in my back yarn for the first time this year.  I am in zone 8 in northeast Texas. I have noticed some plants appear to be stunted.  I have one bed 4X4'with 4 squash plants two zucchini and two yellow. One of the zucchini plants is growing like crazy, two feet wide and blooming.  The other three still only have their first leaves although I planted them all the same day.  They appear to be a little yellow as well. Can you please advise on where to start treating the plants or what possibly has gone wrong?

Answer
This is not unusual when planting from seed. Since the majority of seeds are hybrids, meaning they're the offspring of two different varieties, the growing patterns differ from seed to seed. The good news is that the smaller ones will eventually have a growth spurt and catch the faster growing seedlings.

In the meantime, do not overwater. That is the most likely cause for the yellowing of the leaves. Squash only needs an average of 1.5" of water per week, unless the conditions are very dry. Once they develop their third set of leaves, you can fertilize them with a water-soluble product high in phosphorus. This will promote more blooming and larger fruit. Also, you want to mulch the bed with straw or dried grass clippings to keep the soil cool and to help retain moisture.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike