When to Plant Delicata Squash in Lee County, AL
Delicata squash is a winter squash with an edible skin and sweet, creamy orange flesh. Its compact vines make it suitable for smaller gardens.
Lee County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is November 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 221 days.
At an elevation of 461 feet, Lee County receives approximately 52.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 91Β°F, providing good warmth for Delicata Squash during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Delicata Squash, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Delicata Squash root diseases.
Lee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Delicata Squash
Delicata Squash needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Delicata Squash Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | β | 4.8" | 0" | βοΈ Dormant |
| Feb | β | 4.3" | 0" | βοΈ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | β Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | β Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | π§ Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | π§ Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.4" | 0" | β Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | β Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | π§ Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | π§ Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | π§ Light watering |
| Dec | β | 4.5" | 0" | βοΈ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (MarβNov in Lee County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall β actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Delicata Squash Planting Timeline β Lee County, AL
Delicata Squash Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 27 | Feb 27 β Mar 13 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 10 | Apr 10 β Apr 24 |
| Direct Sow | April 3 | Apr 3 β Apr 24 |
| Harvest | July 3 | Jul 3 β Aug 7 |
Plant 1" deep Β· 30" apart Β· Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | β |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | β |
| June | β |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | β |
| October | β |
| November | β |
| December | β |
Growing Conditions
βοΈ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
π§ Water
Moderate β regular watering
π Days to Maturity
80β100 days
π§ͺ Soil pH
Needs 6β7 Β· Your soil: N/A
πΊοΈ USDA Zone
Zone 7b
π Growing Season
221 days in Lee County
Growing Tips for Lee County
Direct sow after last frost on mounds. Harvest when skin is hard and ivory with green stripes. The thin skin does not need peeling. Stores 2-3 months in a cool place.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Delicata Squash in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Delicata Squash in Lee County, AL?
Lee County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 27. Plan your Delicata Squash planting based on this frost date β see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lee County, AL?
Lee County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and first fall frost is November 3.
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