Squash, melon & gourd family — Cucurbitaceae

Most squash, melon & gourd family are pet-safe. Of the 58 squash, melon & gourd family we cover, 55 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 3 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even in a mostly-safe family, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.

Most squash, melon & gourd family want plenty of direct sun — 58 of the 58 in our library do best there. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it needs more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much.

Some squash, melon & gourd family suit experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime before you buy.

The Cucurbitaceae family — the squash, melon & gourd family — groups 58 species across 8 genera in the Growli library, most prominently Cucurbita, Cucumis, Citrullus. Members share a broadly similar light, water and soil pattern, which is why it pays to learn the family before the individual plant.