When to plant Squash (Summer) in Menard County, IL
Menard County gardeners should plant Squash (Summer) between April 22 and May 13 in spring. With Menard County's Zone 6a climate (last frost April 15), Squash (Summer) needs 45–65 days to mature — plant by August 15 for a full harvest.
When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Menard County, IL
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Menard County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 15 and the first fall frost is October 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 187 days.
At an elevation of 934 feet, Menard County receives approximately 37 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.
Menard County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Menard County, IL
Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 11 | Mar 11 – Mar 25 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 29 | Apr 29 – May 13 |
| Direct Sow | April 22 | Apr 22 – May 13 |
| Harvest | June 17 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 |
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
187 days in Menard County
Growing Tips for Menard 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 Menard County, IL?
Menard County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 15. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Menard County, IL?
Menard County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 15 and first fall frost is October 19.
When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Menard County, IL?
In Menard County, IL, plant Squash (Summer) after the last frost (around April 15) and before the first frost (around October 19). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Menard County, IL for Squash (Summer)?
Menard 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 Menard County's climate?
Yes — Squash (Summer) grows well in Menard County's temperate climate. Menard County averages a 187-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 15 and first frost around October 19.
Your Menard County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Menard 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.