When to plant Squash (Summer) in Mackinac County, MI
Plant Squash (Summer) in Mackinac County, when soil hits 50°F — usually May 19. Continue planting through June 9 for the spring crop.
When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Mackinac County, MI
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Mackinac County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 12 and the first fall frost is October 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 151 days.
At an elevation of 1,335 feet, Mackinac County receives approximately 35.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Squash (Summer) to ensure they mature before fall.
Mackinac County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Mackinac County, MI
Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 7 | Apr 7 – Apr 21 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 26 | May 26 – Jun 9 |
| Direct Sow | May 19 | May 19 – Jun 9 |
| Harvest | July 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| 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 5a
📆 Growing Season
151 days in Mackinac County
Growing Tips for Mackinac 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 Mackinac County, MI?
Mackinac County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of May 12. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Mackinac County, MI?
Mackinac County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 12 and first fall frost is October 10.
When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Mackinac County, MI?
In Mackinac County, MI, plant Squash (Summer) after the last frost (around May 12) and before the first frost (around October 10). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Mackinac County, MI for Squash (Summer)?
Mackinac County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Squash (Summer) grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Squash (Summer) grow in Mackinac County's climate?
Yes — Squash (Summer) grows well in Mackinac County's temperate climate. Mackinac County averages a 151-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 12 and first frost around October 10.
Your Mackinac County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Mackinac County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.