When to plant Squash (Summer) in Douglas County, IL
In Zone 6a (Douglas County), direct-sow Squash (Summer) between April 21 and May 12 for spring, after the April 14 last-frost mark.
When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Douglas County, IL
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Douglas County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 186 days.
At an elevation of 1,036 feet, Douglas County receives approximately 30.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Squash (Summer) during the growing season.
Douglas County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Douglas County, IL
Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 10 | Mar 10 – Mar 24 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 12 |
| Direct Sow | April 21 | Apr 21 – May 12 |
| Harvest | June 16 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 |
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 6a
📆 Growing Season
186 days in Douglas County
Growing Tips for Douglas 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 Douglas County, IL?
Douglas County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 14. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Douglas County, IL?
Douglas County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 14 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Douglas County, IL?
In Douglas County, IL, plant Squash (Summer) after the last frost (around April 14) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Douglas County, IL for Squash (Summer)?
Douglas County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Squash (Summer) grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Squash (Summer) grow in Douglas County's climate?
Yes — Squash (Summer) grows well in Douglas County's temperate climate. Douglas County averages a 186-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 14 and first frost around October 17.
Your Douglas County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Douglas County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.