When to plant Zucchini in Hamilton County, IL
The best window to plant Zucchini in Hamilton County, is April 16–May 7, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 9; first frost October 23.
When to Plant Zucchini in Hamilton County, IL
Zucchini is an incredibly prolific summer squash that can produce an abundance of fruit from just a few plants. It is versatile in the kitchen from grilling to baking.
Hamilton County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 197 days.
At an elevation of 524 feet, Hamilton County receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Zucchini during the growing season.
Hamilton County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Zucchini to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 4 zucchini plants in about 8 sq ft. In Hamilton County's 197-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Monthly Watering Guide for Zucchini
Zucchini needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Zucchini Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Hamilton County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Zucchini Planting Timeline — Hamilton County, IL
Zucchini Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 5 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 23 | Apr 23 – May 7 |
| Direct Sow | April 16 | Apr 16 – May 7 |
| Harvest | June 11 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 |
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
45–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
197 days in Hamilton County
Growing Tips for Hamilton County
Direct sow after last frost. Harvest when fruits are 6-8 inches long for best flavor and texture. Check plants daily in summer as fruits can double in size overnight.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Zucchini in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Zucchini in Hamilton County, IL?
Hamilton County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Zucchini planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Hamilton County, IL?
Hamilton County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 23.
When should I plant Zucchini in Hamilton County, IL?
In Hamilton County, IL, plant Zucchini after the last frost (around April 9) and before the first frost (around October 23). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Hamilton County, IL for Zucchini?
Hamilton County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Zucchini grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Zucchini grow in Hamilton County's climate?
Yes — Zucchini grows well in Hamilton County's temperate climate. Hamilton County averages a 197-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 23.
Your Hamilton County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Hamilton County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.