Jack Miller

Squash plants are not toxic to cats, so you don’t need to panic if your curious feline takes a nibble.   In fact, the ASPCA doesn’t list squash plants or their fruit as toxic to cats, which means they’re generally considered safe.   That said, “safe” doesn’t mean “free-for-all,” because there are a few important … Read more

Squash plants are not perennials in the traditional sense, but whether they come back year after year depends a lot on where you live and what type of squash you’re growing.   Most squash plants are grown as annuals, meaning they complete their entire life cycle in one growing season.   You plant the seeds, … Read more

Squash plants are deer resistant, and that’s one of the many reasons gardeners love growing them.   While no plant is 100% deer-proof, squash plants are among the least appealing options for deer, making them a smart choice for gardens in areas with heavy deer pressure.   In this post, we’ll explore why squash plants … Read more

No, squash is not a nightshade vegetable.   Even though you might hear people lump squash into the nightshade family, that’s simply not true.   Squash belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which is completely different from nightshades.   This is a common mix-up because squash and nightshades like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants often show up … Read more

Squash leaves are safe for chickens and can actually be a nutritious, leafy green treat they absolutely love.   If you’ve ever wondered whether squash leaves are safe for chickens, the short answer is yes, as long as they come from a clean, chemical-free source.   These broad, tender leaves are non-toxic to poultry, which … Read more