Question
Cheltenham, uk

Hi we are growing butternut squash in our garden for the first time and it is growing really well.  I am confused though as I was expecting to see large yellow flowers but have only had what look like big green buds, nevertheless we have 6 small squash on the plant which seem to be growing daily so I am assuming they have pollinated and set.  We have been at home on holiday and have not seen any flowers so I don't think we have missed them.  Is this right?

Thankyou

Debbie

Answer
Debbie, if there are squash, you definitely had flowers. Squash flowers only last less than one day. That is why it is so critical that you have bees readily available to pollinate them. After approximately 10 hours, the flowers quickly wilt and fall off.

As the plant fully matures, it will bloom much more profusely. You will see the yellow-orange flowers in more abundance at that time.

Good luck, and write again if you ever need assistance.

Regards,

Mike