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When to Plant Chayote in Missouri

Chayote is a tropical vine producing pear-shaped, mild-flavored squash. The entire plant is edible including the fruit, shoots, leaves, and tuberous root.

Missouri spans USDA hardiness zones 7a (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

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Click your county for exact Chayote planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Chayote Planting Calendar for Missouri

Zone 7a ~221 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 25 · First frost: November 1 · 221 day season

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors February 4 Feb 4 – Feb 18
Transplant Outdoors April 8 Apr 8 – Apr 22
Direct Sow April 1 Apr 1 – Apr 22
Harvest August 12 Aug 12 – Oct 21

Growing Tips for Missouri

Plant the whole fruit at a 45-degree angle with the stem end exposed. Provide a very sturdy trellis. One vine can produce 60-80 fruits. Harvest when fruits are young and tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Chayote in Missouri?

Planting dates for Chayote in Missouri depend on your USDA zone. Missouri spans zones 7a. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Missouri for planting?

Missouri contains USDA hardiness zones 7a. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: April 2026.