When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Carter County, TN
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Carter County, Tennessee is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 16 and the first fall frost is October 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 189 days.
At an elevation of 3,776 feet, Carter County receives approximately 53.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Squash (Summer) during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Squash (Summer) root diseases.
Carter County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.6-7
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Squash (Summer)
Squash (Summer) needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Squash (Summer) Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 5.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 3.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 4.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Carter County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Carter County, TN
Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 12 | Mar 12 – Mar 26 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 30 | Apr 30 – May 14 |
| Direct Sow | April 23 | Apr 23 – May 14 |
| Harvest | June 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 |
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 | 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
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
189 days in Carter County
Growing Tips for Carter 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Squash (Summer) in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Carter County, TN?
Carter County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 16. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Carter County, TN?
Carter County, Tennessee is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 16 and first fall frost is October 22.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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