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When to plant Squash (Summer) in Hale County, AL

Hale County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Plant Squash (Summer) between March 21 (after last frost on March 14) and April 11.

When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Hale County, AL

Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.

Hale County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 14 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 244 days.

At an elevation of 405 feet, Hale County receives approximately 49.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 93°F, providing good warmth for Squash (Summer) during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Squash (Summer), but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.

Hale County, AL (Zone 8b) Long season
244 days
Last Spring Frost March 14
244 growing days
First Fall Frost November 13

Hale County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Drainage

Well Drained

Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Hale County, AL

Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors February 14 Feb 14 – Feb 28
Transplant Outdoors March 28 Mar 28 – Apr 11
Direct Sow March 21 Mar 21 – Apr 11
Harvest May 16 May 16 – Jul 18

Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January
February Start Indoors
March Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
April Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
May Harvest
June Harvest
July Harvest
August
September
October
November
December

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Full Sun (6-8+ hours)

💧 Water

Moderate — regular watering

📅 Days to Maturity

45–65 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 8b

📆 Growing Season

244 days in Hale County

Growing Tips for Hale 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

  • Potatoes

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Hale County, AL?

Hale County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 14. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.

What planting zone is Hale County, AL?

Hale County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 14 and first fall frost is November 13.

When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Hale County, AL?

In Hale County, AL, plant Squash (Summer) after the last frost (around March 14) and before the first frost (around November 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Hale County, AL for Squash (Summer)?

Hale County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Squash (Summer) grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Squash (Summer) grow in Hale County's climate?

Yes — Squash (Summer) grows well in Hale County's temperate climate. Hale County averages a 244-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 14 and first frost around November 13.

🌱

Your Hale County Garden Planner — Free

A 22-page printable planner built for Hale County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Hale County, AL. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: August 2026.

Sources & credits

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