When to Plant and Harvest Squash
Prolific summer squash with tender flesh, ideal for grilling and baking
Soil pH: Target soil pH 6.5. Lime if a soil test reads below 6.0. Keep it within 6.0 to 7.0. Soil Test Desk
How many to grow for what you cook: Ratatouille, Zucchini bread, Garden vegetable soup. Plate to Plot planner
Pets: Non-toxic to dogs and cats (ASPCA). ASPCA entry. Pet-Safe Garden Finder
Flavor notes: Mild, tender summer squash.
Variety notes: Fast summer squash; harvest small and often.
Best Time and Place to Plant Squash
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Squash in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 60F to 95F, and enough room for 24 inches between plants and 48 inches between rows.
Related Planting Guides
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 15 to June 15 | Spring only |
| Zone 2 | May 10 to June 10 | Spring only |
| Zone 3 | May 1 to June 1 | Spring only |
| Zone 4 | April 20 to May 30 | Spring only |
| Zone 5 | April 15 to May 25 | Spring only |
| Zone 6 | April 10 to May 20 | Spring only |
| Zone 7 | April 1 to May 15 | Spring only |
| Zone 8 | March 20 to May 10 | Spring only |
| Zone 9 | March 10 to May 1 | August 1 to September 15 |
| Zone 10 | February 15 to April 15 | August 15 to October 1 |
| Zone 11 | January 15 to March 15 | September 1 to November 1 |
| Zone 12 | January 1 to March 1 | October 1 to December 1 |
| Zone 13 | Year-round | Year-round |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 1 inches deep
- Spacing: 24 inches apart, 48 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 60F to 95F
- Sunlight: 6+ hours
- Watering: Water deeply 1-2 times per week; avoid wetting foliage
- Days to harvest: 50
Fertilization
- 10-10-10 Balanced synthetic: 2 lbs per 100 sq ft at planting
- Compost organic: 3 inches worked in before planting
- Aged Manure organic: Side-dress every 3 weeks
Companion Plants
- Corn
- Beans
- Nasturtium
- Borage
Avoid Planting Near
- Potatoes
- Fennel
Check any pair, and see which pairings have research behind them, on the Companion Planting Desk.
Harvest Signs
- Fruit is 6-8 inches long for best flavor
- Skin is tender and can be easily scratched with a fingernail
- Harvest regularly to encourage continued production
- Avoid letting fruit grow beyond 12 inches
Track picks and rate the season on the Harvest Log.
Major Varieties
- Yellow Summer Squash: Fast summer squash; frequent picking keeps plants productive.
- Acorn Squash: Compact winter squash; harvest when rind hardens.
- Butternut Squash: Longer-season winter squash with excellent storage.
FAQs
When should I plant Squash?
Squash planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Squash?
The best time of year to plant Squash is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 60F to 95F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Squash?
Plant Squash in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 60F to 95F, and enough room for 24 inches between plants and 48 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Squash?
Plant Squash about 24 inches apart, with rows around 48 inches apart.
What grows well with Squash?
Squash is commonly paired with Corn, Beans, Nasturtium, Borage.
How long does Squash take to grow?
Squash is typically ready to harvest in about 50 days under good conditions. Use the harvest signs below rather than the calendar alone.
How do I know when to harvest Squash?
Harvest Squash when fruit is 6-8 inches long for best flavor. Skin is tender and can be easily scratched with a fingernail Harvest regularly to encourage continued production