When to plant Squash (Winter) in Pope County, IL
The best window to plant Squash (Winter) in Pope County, is April 14–May 5, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 7; first frost October 21.
When to Plant Squash (Winter) in Pope County, IL
Winter squash includes butternut, acorn, delicata, and hubbard varieties grown to full maturity with hard rinds for storage. They develop sweet, dense flesh.
Pope County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 7 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 197 days.
At an elevation of 1,120 feet, Pope County receives approximately 39.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Squash (Winter) during the growing season.
Pope County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Squash (Winter) Planting Timeline — Pope County, IL
Squash (Winter) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 10 | Mar 10 – Mar 24 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 21 | Apr 21 – May 5 |
| Direct Sow | April 14 | Apr 14 – May 5 |
| Harvest | July 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 |
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 | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
80–120 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
197 days in Pope County
Growing Tips for Pope County
Direct sow after last frost on rich mounds. Allow ample space for sprawling vines. Cure harvested fruits in the sun for 10 days before storing in a cool, dry place.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Squash (Winter) in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Squash (Winter) in Pope County, IL?
Pope County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 7. Plan your Squash (Winter) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Pope County, IL?
Pope County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 7 and first fall frost is October 21.
When should I plant Squash (Winter) in Pope County, IL?
In Pope County, IL, plant Squash (Winter) after the last frost (around April 7) and before the first frost (around October 21). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Pope County, IL for Squash (Winter)?
Pope County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Squash (Winter) grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Squash (Winter) grow in Pope County's climate?
Yes — Squash (Winter) grows well in Pope County's temperate climate. Pope County averages a 197-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 7 and first frost around October 21.
Your Pope County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Pope County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.