Getting squash seeds to sprout - keep them watered or not?

I read something a while ago that said not to water squash seeds while they’re germinating because they rot, and I followed this and only around one out of 30 or so direct-seeded zucchinis or cucumbers sprouted. The one that did sprout is looking a bit sad, and is nowhere near as advanced as the ones I started in 2” soil blocks at around the same time.

How do you germinate zucchinis, cucumbers, and winter squashes?

Are there any good rules to follow about when to water?

Is direct seeding better than transplanting for the pepo squashes? Or only for the maxima ones?

I direct seed squash, and then water them regularly.

My experience is that direct seeded squash grow much better than transplants.

I have never had any issues watering squash seeds when I am germinating them, if fact, I often pre-sprout them before putting them in a pot.  As far as direct seeding verses transplants goes, I agree with Joseph, I think direct seeded squash grow better than transplants, and to take it a step further, volunteers grow much better than direct seeded.  :)

The key, in my opinion, to germinating most vegetable seeds is to keep the soil somewhat moist, but you don't want the soil sopping wet.  I start with damp soil when I plant the seeds and I cover the pots with a plastic dome.  If you don't have a dome, a plastic bag will work just as well.  I bottom water the pots when the soil seems dry.  I've never had any seeds rot doing it this way.