When to Plant Patty Pan Squash in Middlesex County, VA
Patty pan squash is a summer squash with a distinctive flying-saucer shape and scalloped edges. It comes in white, yellow, and green varieties with a mild, nutty flavor.
Middlesex County, Virginia is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 1 and the first fall frost is November 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 217 days.
At an elevation of 812 feet, Middlesex County receives approximately 41.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Patty Pan Squash during the growing season.
Middlesex County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-7.1
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
Patty Pan Squash Planting Timeline — Middlesex County, VA
Patty Pan Squash Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 4 | Mar 4 – Mar 18 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 15 | Apr 15 – Apr 29 |
| Direct Sow | April 8 | Apr 8 – Apr 29 |
| Harvest | June 3 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
45–60 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 7b
Growing Season
217 days
Growing Tips for Middlesex County
Direct sow after last frost. Harvest when 2-4 inches across for best texture and flavor. Larger fruits become seedy and tough. Very prolific producers in warm weather.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Patty Pan Squash in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Patty Pan Squash in Middlesex County, VA?
Middlesex County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of April 1. Plan your Patty Pan Squash planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Middlesex County, VA?
Middlesex County, Virginia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 1 and first fall frost is November 4.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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