When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Brown County, MN
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Brown County, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 30 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 160 days.
At an elevation of 1,199 feet, Brown County receives approximately 31.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Squash (Summer) to ensure they mature before fall.
Brown County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7
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
Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Brown County, MN
Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 19 | Mar 19 – Apr 2 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 21 | May 21 – Jun 4 |
| Direct Sow | May 14 | May 14 – Jun 4 |
| Harvest | July 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
45–65 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 4b
Growing Season
160 days
Growing Tips for Brown County
Direct sow after last frost on mounds. Harvest frequently when fruits are 6-8 inches for best texture. Check plants daily as they grow rapidly in summer heat.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Squash (Summer) in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Brown County, MN?
Brown County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of April 30. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Brown County, MN?
Brown County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 30 and first fall frost is October 7.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Brown County gardeners in Zone 4b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.