When to plant Squash (Summer) in Marshall County, IL
Marshall County's climate puts the Squash (Summer) spring window between April 28 and May 19. time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival.
When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Marshall County, IL
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Marshall County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and the first fall frost is October 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 175 days.
At an elevation of 1,177 feet, Marshall County receives approximately 30.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Squash (Summer) to ensure they mature before fall.
Marshall County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Marshall 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 5b
📆 Growing Season
175 days in Marshall County
Growing Tips for Marshall 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 Marshall County, IL?
Marshall County is in Zone 5b 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 Marshall County, IL?
Marshall County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and first fall frost is October 13.
When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Marshall County, IL?
In Marshall County, IL, plant Squash (Summer) after the last frost (around April 21) and before the first frost (around October 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Marshall County, IL for Squash (Summer)?
Marshall County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Squash (Summer) grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Squash (Summer) grow in Marshall County's climate?
Yes — Squash (Summer) grows well in Marshall County's temperate climate. Marshall County averages a 175-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 21 and first frost around October 13.
Your Marshall County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marshall County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.