Gourds & squash seeds — courgettes, pumpkins and winter squash
Gourds and squash are the sprawling, generous members of the cucurbit family — courgettes and summer squash for quick pickings, pumpkins and winter squash for storing, plus decorative gourds for autumn. They're among the most rewarding crops in our vegetable seed range and sit alongside their cousin the cucumber. First time growing them? Start with our vegetable growing guide.
These crops hate frost. Sow at the right time for a long, productive season — the calendar shows when.
Summer pickings vs winter keepers
For fast, soft-skinned crops pick from our summer squash and prolific courgettes. For hard-skinned storers, browse winter squash and classic pumpkins, or see the whole Cucurbita pepo group together.
Growing big, healthy plants
Squash are hungry and thirsty — plant into rich soil (our soil guide helps) and water deeply at the roots, since wet leaves invite mildew. Keep them fed with our feeding guide and watch for common diseases like powdery mildew in late summer.
Short on ground space? Train trailing types up a sturdy support, or pick compact bush courgettes.
Popular vegetable categories: Courgette · Pumpkin · Winter Squash · Summer Squash · Cucumber
At SeedsChoice, every order ships from Meppel, NL with fast, tracked EU delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I sow squash and pumpkins?
After the last frost in late spring, or start them indoors in pots a few weeks earlier and plant out once it is warm.
What's the difference between summer and winter squash?
Summer squash and courgettes have soft skins and are eaten young; winter squash and pumpkins have hard skins and store for months.
Why are my squash leaves white and powdery?
That is powdery mildew, common late in the season. Water at the roots, improve airflow and remove badly affected leaves.
Do they need a lot of space?
Trailing types sprawl widely, but you can train them up supports or choose compact bush varieties for smaller plots.
How productive are courgettes?
Very — just one or two plants usually keep a household well supplied all summer.