How to grow button squash in a raised bed

Button (pattypan) squash are the pretty, scalloped little summer squash that crop heavily and pick young for the sweetest flavour. Like all summer squash, one or two plants will keep you well supplied.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun, 6+ hours
• Spacing: 60–80 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 35 cm depth
• Time to harvest: 6–8 weeks

When should I plant button squash?

Button squash are frost-tender — plant from spring through summer once the soil is warm. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): August to March
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): September to January
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): October to December
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): March to August
• Arid inland: February to March and September to December

How do I grow button squash in a raised bed?

Plant into rich, well-fed mix with room to spread. Like zucchini, they're prone to powdery mildew, so give them airflow and water the soil, not the leaves.

How often should I water and feed button squash?

Water deeply at the base and keep it even; feed while fruiting.

What pests attack button squash?

Keep an eye out for aphids and the 28-spotted ladybird. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.

What diseases affect button squash?

The main ones are powdery mildew and mosaic virus. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.

What grows well with button squash?

Beans and nasturtiums make good companions. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest button squash?

Pick young, at 5–8 cm across, when they're sweet and tender — check daily in peak season. Frequent picking keeps them coming.

More growing guides: zucchini, pumpkins and cucumbers.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Rameshng, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.