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How do summer squashes differ from winter squashes?
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Cucurbitales
Pumpkins and gourds, order Cucurbitales.
Within the Cucurbitales order, squashes in the Cucurbitaceae family are categorized as either summer or winter varieties based on their growth habits, harvest timing, and storage capabilities.12
Key Differences
- Growth Habit: Summer squashes are quick-growing, bush-like, or nontrailing plants. In contrast, winter squashes are vining, long-season plants.1
- Harvest and Maturity: Summer squashes develop rapidly and must be harvested while young, before their rinds and seeds harden. Winter squashes are harvested at full maturity.1
- Storage: Because they are harvested young, summer squashes must be used soon after harvest. Winter squashes are characterized by their ability to be stored for many months if kept dry and in cool conditions.1
- Rind Edibility: The rinds of summer squashes are generally considered edible. The rinds of winter squashes are relatively hard and are typically considered inedible.1
Common examples of summer squash include zucchini and yellow crookneck, while winter varieties include butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash.1