Prevent squash from rot

As squash, including pumpkins, develop they should be carefully lifted off the soil to prevent damage from slugs and rot. They can be placed on dry straw or a piece of wood. Lift them carefully and wipe any soil from the underside if necessary. Removing foliage over the fruits to expose them to the sun will also help the skins to ripen and will help with later storage. Be careful not to break the stems as you handle them. Be prepared to harvest the fruits if frost is forecast. Any small fruits that won’t have time to develop fully should be removed.