When to plant Zucchini in Compton, MD
Compton gardeners should plant Zucchini between April 12 and May 3 in spring. With Compton's Zone 8a climate (last frost April 5), Zucchini needs 45–60 days to mature — plant by September 5 for a full harvest.
When to Plant Zucchini in Compton, MD
Top priorities for St. Mary's County, Maryland gardeners in July
July is a pivotal month for St. Mary's County, Maryland gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
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Start harvesting zucchini
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
To set up a strong August, finish these tasks
- First harvests: zucchini
Zucchini is an incredibly prolific summer squash that can produce an abundance of fruit from just a few plants. It is versatile in the kitchen from grilling to baking.
Compton, Maryland is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is April 5 and the first fall frost is November 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 213 days.
At an elevation of 156 feet, St. Mary's County receives approximately 41.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Zucchini during the growing season.
Compton Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Zucchini 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 Compton
How your county's soil matches Zucchini's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.5–6.9) overlaps with Zucchini's range (6.0–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The silt loam soil in St. Mary's County is excellent for Zucchini — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (3.0%). Annual compost additions will help Zucchini.
How to Plant Zucchini
Succession Planting Zucchini
Sow every 5.1 weeks. Last sowing by Sep 05 to harvest before frost.
Zucchini Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Zucchini
Zucchini needs approximately 1.2 inches of water per week (5.2" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Zucchini Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 3.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 3.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 5.2" | 3.3" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 5.2" | 3.9" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 5.2" | 4.3" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 5.2" | 4" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 5.2" | 4.3" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 5.2" | 3.6" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 5.2" | 3.4" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 5.2" | 2.7" | 2.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 2.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Nov in St. Mary's County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Zucchini 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.
Zucchini Planting Timeline — Compton, MD
Zucchini Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 8 | Mar 8 – Mar 22 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 19 | Apr 19 – May 3 |
| Direct Sow | April 12 | Apr 12 – May 3 |
| Harvest | June 7 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 |
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
1.2"/week · 1-2 times/week
📅 Days to Maturity
45–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8a
📆 Growing Season
213 days in St. Mary's County
Growing Tips for Zucchini in Compton
Direct sow Zucchini outdoors after April 05 in St. Mary's County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Your generous 213.0-day season in St. Mary's County allows multiple plantings of Zucchini. Sow every 22.0 days for continuous harvest.
Common pests for Zucchini in this region include squash vine borer and cucumber beetles. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
General growing tips
Direct sow after last frost. Harvest when fruits are 6-8 inches long for best flavor and texture. Check plants daily in summer as fruits can double in size overnight.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Zucchini in Other Locations
When should I plant Zucchini in Compton, MD?
In Compton, MD, plant Zucchini after the last frost (around April 5) and before the first frost (around November 4). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Compton, MD for Zucchini?
Compton sits in USDA Zone 8a. Zucchini grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Zucchini grow in Compton's climate?
Yes — Zucchini grows well in Compton's temperate climate. Compton averages a 213-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 5 and first frost around November 4.
Your St. Mary's County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for St. Mary's County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.