When to Plant Hubbard Squash in Union 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.
Union County, North Carolina is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 26 and the first fall frost is November 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 223 days.
At an elevation of 1,049 feet, Union County receives approximately 53.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Hubbard Squash during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Hubbard Squash, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Hubbard Squash root diseases.
Union County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.8
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
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Hubbard Squash Planting Timeline — Union County, NC
Hubbard Squash Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 26 | Feb 26 – Mar 12 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Direct Sow | April 2 | Apr 2 – Apr 23 |
| Harvest | July 23 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors |
| 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 7b
Growing Season
223 days
Growing Tips for Union 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 Union County, NC?
Union County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 26. Plan your Hubbard Squash planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Union County, NC?
Union County, North Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 26 and first fall frost is November 4.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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