chemical which controls wireworm and Telone which is a fumigant (for application rates and

comments, refer to pp. 441-446 of the 1992-1993 Florida Insect Control Guide, 1993).


Squash

 Squash is grown throughout the state of Florida with the exception of the Everglades

 region. The primary squash production area is located in southeast Florida. Squash is harvested

 from early September to July. Summer varieties that are harvested immature include: Cracker,

 Sundance, and Lemondrop. Winter varieties that are harvested mature include: Royal Acorn,

 Tay Belle, and Ponca. There are numerous other varieties that are also grown in Florida (Olson

 and Sherman, No Date). In the 1991-92 season, approximately 12,500 acres of squash were

 harvested in the state of Florida (FASS, 1993).


 Cultural Practices

 Squash can be planted as a single crop without mulch and as a second, and sometimes

third crop, in a multiple cropping system, using the full-bed mulch system.

 In Florida, squash grown as a single crop uses the open bed system which does not

require plastic or the use of methyl bromide. The field is plowed and checked for leveling,

especially in areas where seepage irrigation is to be used. Soil requirements are tested, and soil

amendments are applied, such as lime for adjustment of pH. Disking may be required to

prepare the field for planting (Kostewicz, 1976). The development of slightly raised beds may

be required in areas where flooding may occur. This can be accomplished using a disc hiller

or a bed disc. The initial application of fertilizer is applied as a band or strip 2 to 3 inches to

the side of and below the seed. Supplemental fertilizer should be applied as needed during the