SQUASH VARIETIES 285 



definite as they can be made, according to the character of the soils 

 employed. 



Cultivation must be begun as soon as possible after planting, 

 to save moisture from loss either by weeds or evaporation, and 

 must be frequent for the same reason. Nothing looks more dis- 

 tressful than squash vines perishing on baked clay or dry sandy 

 soil which, if properly cultivated from the start, would have sus- 

 tained a splendid growth. 



Garden Culture. In addition to injunctions for thorough 

 working of the soil and adequate irrigation, there is the opportunity 

 in garden culture to produce grand results by special fertilization. 

 Careful use of the compost or liquid manure described in the chap- 

 ter on fertilization, produces marvelous results. 



Varieties. We have in California probably all the kinds of 

 squash known to horticulture. Some amateurs take special interest 

 in such collections, and scores of varieties representing the whole 

 gourd family have been shown in state fair exhibits. And yet the 

 bulk of the product is made of very few varieties. 



Of the bush forms which are relied upon for summer squash, 

 the scollops comprise most of the crop ; both the early white and 

 yellow being grown the former preferred. The yellow crook- 

 neck is also grown to some extent. The Italian and Boston mar- 

 rows have a few warm advocates. 



Of the winter squash for table use, the Hubbard and the Red 

 or Golden Hubbard, which is a little earlier, are chiefly grown. 

 The field squash crop is made of several varieties. The California 

 Marrowfat, a splendid, orange-colored squash, takes the lead, while 

 associated with it in the same field may be found the Mammoth 

 Chile, which is usually the sort, more or less pure, which yields 

 the largest specimens. There is also a very large winter crook- 

 neck, very prolific and rather more hardy in trying situations, but 

 not so good in keeping quality as the preceding. Here and there 

 may be found a field of the old-fashioned New England pumpkin, 

 and fair exhibits usually bring to light both the Etampes and Tours 

 pumpkins, but the large orange and light olive fruits are named 

 squashes in the California vernacular, and are preferred. There is 

 much confusion both in the terms "squash" and "pumpkin," and 

 there are many chance hybrids which await analysis by some cucur- 

 bitous specialist. 



