When to plant Squash (Summer) in Lake County, IL
Spring Squash (Summer) in Lake County goes in April 28–May 19, once nighttime temps stop dipping near freezing.
When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Lake County, IL
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Lake County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 21 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 182 days.
At an elevation of 1,080 feet, Lake County receives approximately 33.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Squash (Summer) to ensure they mature before fall.
Lake County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Lake County, IL
Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 17 | Mar 17 – Mar 31 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 5 | May 5 – May 19 |
| Direct Sow | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 19 |
| Harvest | June 23 | Jun 23 – Aug 25 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | 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
182 days in Lake County
Growing Tips for Lake 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 Lake County, IL?
Lake County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 21. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lake County, IL?
Lake County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 21 and first fall frost is October 20.
When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Lake County, IL?
In Lake County, IL, plant Squash (Summer) after the last frost (around April 21) and before the first frost (around October 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lake County, IL for Squash (Summer)?
Lake 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 Lake County's climate?
Yes — Squash (Summer) grows well in Lake County's temperate climate. Lake County averages a 182-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 21 and first frost around October 20.
Your Lake County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lake 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.