what is causing my young squash to shrivel and rot

Question

I have a square foot garden and my young squash are shriveling. Could I be watering them too much?

Answer 1

It is a pollination problem. When the flowers are not pollinated, the plant "aborts" the fruit because it will not make seeds. These articles will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/insect-pollination-process.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/squash/squash-fruit-falling-off-the-plant.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/squash/pollinate-squash-by-hand.htm

Blossom end rot is another issue that affects older fruits: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/squash/squash-fruit-falling-off-the-plant.htm