{"product_id":"squash-green-gem-south-african","title":"SQUASH-GREEN GEM-SOUTH AFRICAN","description":"\u003ch2\u003eHow to Grow South African Gem Squash\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"scrollable-wrapper\"\u003e\n\n\u003col\u003e\n\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eSoil Preparation before planting Green Gem-South African Squash, is important to grow a healthy crop.  The ideal soil for this type of squash is well-draining, and rich in organic matter.  With a pH of around 6.0 to 6.8.  Start by loosening the soil to a depth of about 30 cm (12 inches) using a garden fork or tiller. Then, mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil's fertility and texture. Finally, rake the soil to create a smooth and level surface.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003ePlanting your Green Gem-South African Squash is a warm position as it requires plenty of sunlight and warm soil to germinate and grow. Wait until the soil temperature has reached around 21°C (70°F) before planting the seeds. You can plant the seeds directly into the garden bed or start them indoors about two to three weeks before the last frost date in your area. Plant the seeds about 2.5 cm (1 inch) deep and space them about 45 cm (18 inches) apart.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eOnce the Squash seeds have germinated, it is important to provide them with proper care and maintenance. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, by watering the plants deeply once a week. Be careful not to wet the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases. You can also mulch around the plants to help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weed growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eHarvest your Green Gem-South African Squash when they are about 7.5 cm (3 inches) in diameter and have a bright green skin. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the stem about 2.5 cm (1 inch) above the fruit. Be sure to handle the fruit gently to avoid damaging the skin. The fruits should be harvested regularly to encourage continued growth and production.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\n\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eIn conclusion, growing Green Gem-South African Squash is a simple and rewarding experience that can yield delicious and nutritious fruits. Proper soil preparation, planting, care, and maintenance are essential for a successful harvest. With a little bit of effort and patience, you can enjoy the rich heritage and bountiful harvest of this unique summer squash.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHeritage of Green Gem Squash\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eGreen Gem-South African Squash is a variety that was developed in South Africa in the early 1900s. It is a cross between a pattypan squash and a zucchini and was first introduced to the United States in the 1970s. Since then, it has become a popular variety among home gardeners all around the world due to its high yield and delicious flavour.\u003c\/span\u003e","brand":"Direct Compost Solutions","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55020583518580,"sku":"SQGG-SA","price":3.5,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1006\/7171\/7748\/files\/SQUASH_GREEN_GEM_SOUTH_AFRICAN-2.jpg?v=1785570579","url":"https:\/\/directcompostsolutions.com\/products\/squash-green-gem-south-african","provider":"DIRECT COMPOST SOLUTIONS","version":"1.0","type":"link"}