Watering

• Using a soaker hose is one of the most efficient ways of watering a vine crop.Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Agust¨ªn Ruiz
  
  Water squash plants when the soil is dry deeper than 3 inches below the surface and water at least 6 inches deep. Soaker hoses and drip irrigation systems are the most effective watering methods.
  
  

Enriching the soil with nitrogen

• A balanced fertilizer adds nitrogen to the soil.Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Ted Percival
  
  Use a balanced fertilizer or fish emulsion to add nitrogen and control pH levels in the soil. Use a side-dressing fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, when the plant stands at 12 inches, before it bends to the weight of the fruit.
  
  

Transplant Shock

• Avoid transplant shock, a failure to thrive, by ensuring the plant has enough water before and after setting the plant out.
  
  

Disease

• Vine crops are prone to disease.Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Kevin Dooley
  
  Vine crops are particularly susceptible to disease. Avoid touching the squash when it's wet to prevent spreading bacteria to the plants.
  
  

Pests

• Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Jeff Kubina
  
  Resist disease-spreading insects like cucumber beetles by planting a few radish seeds with each plant. Leave radishes in until picking the first squash.