When to Plant Hubbard Squash in Duplin County, NC
Hubbard squash is a large, bumpy-skinned winter squash with dense, sweet, dry flesh ideal for baking and pies. The hard shell allows storage for 6 months or more.
Duplin County, North Carolina is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 23 and the first fall frost is November 8, giving you a growing season of approximately 230 days.
At an elevation of 829 feet, Duplin County receives approximately 45.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Hubbard Squash may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Hubbard Squash, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Duplin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Hubbard Squash Planting Timeline — Duplin County, NC
Hubbard Squash Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 23 | Feb 23 – Mar 9 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 6 | Apr 6 – Apr 20 |
| Direct Sow | March 30 | Mar 30 – Apr 20 |
| Harvest | July 20 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
100–120 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
230 days
Growing Tips for Duplin County
Start seeds indoors in short-season areas. Requires ample space and rich soil. Harvest when the skin is very hard and the color is deep. Cure in the sun before storing.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Hubbard Squash in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Hubbard Squash in Duplin County, NC?
Duplin County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 23. Plan your Hubbard Squash planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Duplin County, NC?
Duplin County, North Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 23 and first fall frost is November 8.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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