How to grow winter squash
Harvest when the rind resists a thumbnail, then cure 10 days somewhere warm.
Rotation and family
Winter squash belongs to the cucurbits (Cucurbitaceae). Sprawling, thirsty and prone to powdery mildew and cucumber beetles.
In a four-bed crop rotation it goes in the fruiting-crop bed. Avoid growing it where any cucurbits grew in the last three years.
When to plant winter squash by zone
| Zone | Start indoors | Sow / plant out |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | Apr 29 – May 13 | Jun 3 – Jun 24 |
| 4 | Apr 21 – May 5 | May 26 – Jun 16 |
| 5 | Apr 9 – Apr 23 | May 14 – Jun 4 |
| 6 | Mar 30 – Apr 13 | May 4 – May 25 |
| 7 | Mar 18 – Apr 1 | Apr 22 – May 13 |
| 8 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 | Apr 9 – Apr 30 |
| 9 | Feb 1 – Feb 15 | Mar 8 – Mar 29 |
| 10 | Jan 11 – Jan 25 | Feb 15 – Mar 8 |
Based on typical frost dates for each zone; b half-zones run about a week earlier in spring. Zones 11–13 are frost-free in most years.
Winter squash questions
When should I plant winter squash?
Plant winter squash outdoors 2 weeks after your last spring frost. Start seeds indoors about 3 weeks before your last frost.
How far apart should I plant winter squash?
About 48 inches apart, or 1 plant per 4 square feet in a square foot garden.
What grows well with winter squash?
Traditional companions include bush bean, marigold, nasturtium, sweet corn. Keep it away from potato.
How long does winter squash take to grow?
Typically 80–110 days from sowing to first harvest, depending on variety and weather.