When does everyone plant out squash? They don't need as big a head start as maters or peppers. So I start on May 1st for planting out on May 31.
I would plant vine seeds only about 5 weeks before you can safely put them outside, otherwise they'll get too long and leggy. Squashes HATE to have their roots disturbed, best way to start them is in 3 inch peat..or "Cow".. pots that have been well soaked before soil's added (keeping them well moistened after by spraying periodically), and plant the large seeds on their SIDES, not flat! When planting into the garden (pot and all), it's also a very good idea to cut the bottoms/sides of pots with a sharp knife to allow roots to expand into native soils easier. It's also beneficial to trim tops of peat pots..beforehand..down to soil level they contain, and make SURE these are fully covered to stop any "wicking" out of moisture around plants once put in the garden. Squash are very tender, plant out well after last frost date in your area. GOOD GROWING!
