When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Nance County, NE
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Nance County, Nebraska is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 27 and the first fall frost is October 8, giving you a growing season of approximately 164 days.
At an elevation of 797 feet, Nance County receives approximately 23.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Squash (Summer) to ensure they mature before fall.
Nance County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-7.4
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 — Nance County, NE
Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 23 | Mar 23 – Apr 6 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 11 | May 11 – May 25 |
| Direct Sow | May 4 | May 4 – May 25 |
| Harvest | June 29 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 |
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 | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| 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 5a
Growing Season
164 days
Growing Tips for Nance 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 Nance County, NE?
Nance County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 27. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Nance County, NE?
Nance County, Nebraska is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 27 and first fall frost is October 8.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Nance County gardeners in Zone 5a 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.