When to plant Squash (Summer) in Hamilton County, KS
Aim to plant Squash (Summer) in Hamilton County on or after May 4; the window stays open through May 25. Hamilton County's 168-day frost-free season gives you a single solid spring crop with a brief fall option.
When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Hamilton County, KS
This month in Hamilton County, Kansas
A quick June briefing for Hamilton County, Kansas gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Hamilton County, Kansas is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 27 and the first fall frost is October 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 168 days.
At an elevation of 871 feet, Hamilton County receives approximately 24 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Squash (Summer) during the growing season.
Hamilton County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Squash (Summer) Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Soil Compatibility in Hamilton County
How your county's soil matches Squash (Summer)'s growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.3–7.8) overlaps with Squash (Summer)'s range (6.0–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Hamilton County is excellent for Squash (Summer) — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is excellent (4.3%) — Squash (Summer) will thrive.
How to Plant Squash (Summer)
Succession Planting Squash (Summer)
Sow every 5.1 weeks. Last sowing by Aug 08 to harvest before frost.
Squash (Summer) Water Budget
Water stress score is 10/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Monthly Watering Guide for Squash (Summer)
Squash (Summer) needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Squash (Summer) Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.8" | 1.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 2.1" | 2.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 1.7" | 2.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2" | 2.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.4" | 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.
Squash (Summer) Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Hamilton County, KS
Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 23 | Mar 23 – Apr 6 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 11 | May 11 – May 25 |
| Direct Sow | May 4 | May 4 – May 25 |
| Harvest | June 29 | Jun 29 – Aug 31 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · 1-2 times/week
📅 Days to Maturity
45–65 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
168 days in Hamilton County
Growing Tips for Squash (Summer) in Hamilton County
Direct sow Squash (Summer) outdoors after April 27 in Hamilton County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Your generous 168.0-day season in Hamilton County allows multiple plantings of Squash (Summer). Sow every 22.0 days for continuous harvest.
Common pests for Squash (Summer) in this region include squash vine borer and cucumber beetles. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
Hamilton County receives only 24" of rain annually. Squash (Summer) needs consistent moisture — install drip irrigation or water deeply 2-3 times per week.
General growing tips
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 Hamilton County, KS?
Hamilton County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 27. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Hamilton County, KS?
Hamilton County, Kansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 27 and first fall frost is October 12.
When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Hamilton County, KS?
In Hamilton County, KS, plant Squash (Summer) after the last frost (around April 27) and before the first frost (around October 12). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Hamilton County, KS for Squash (Summer)?
Hamilton 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 Hamilton County's climate?
Yes — Squash (Summer) grows well in Hamilton County's temperate climate. Hamilton County averages a 168-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 27 and first frost around October 12.
Your Hamilton County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Hamilton 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.