When to Plant Squash (Winter) in DeKalb County, GA
Winter squash includes butternut, acorn, delicata, and hubbard varieties grown to full maturity with hard rinds for storage. They develop sweet, dense flesh.
DeKalb County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 236 days.
At an elevation of 323 feet, DeKalb County receives approximately 50.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 94°F, providing good warmth for Squash (Winter) during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Squash (Winter), but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Squash (Winter) root diseases.
DeKalb County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.6
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 (Winter) Planting Timeline — DeKalb County, GA
Squash (Winter) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 22 | Feb 22 – Mar 8 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 5 | Apr 5 – Apr 19 |
| Direct Sow | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 19 |
| Harvest | June 28 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| 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
80–120 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 7b
Growing Season
236 days
Growing Tips for DeKalb County
Direct sow after last frost on rich mounds. Allow ample space for sprawling vines. Cure harvested fruits in the sun for 10 days before storing in a cool, dry place.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Squash (Winter) in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Squash (Winter) in DeKalb County, GA?
DeKalb County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 22. Plan your Squash (Winter) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is DeKalb County, GA?
DeKalb County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 22 and first fall frost is November 13.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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