Can winter squash vines be cut back for larger squash?

Question

Once the vine is producing, can I cut back the vines to produce bigger squash? Also, is it okay for the squash to get frosted before harvesting to set the sugars?

Answer 1

While it’s okay to cut some, you should only try to remove the growing tips so as not to leave large wounds that may draw squash pests and diseases. The best time to harvest winter squash is at the end of the growing season, just before the first frost.