When to plant Kabocha in Mower County, MN
In Mower County, plant Kabocha in spring between May 12 and June 2, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Mower County's last frost averages April 28, so be cautious and check the 10-day forecast before planting tender crops. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 85–100 days before the first frost on October 7.
When to Plant Kabocha in Mower County, MN
Kabocha is a Japanese winter squash with an exceptionally sweet, dense, chestnut-like flesh and dark green skin. It is a favorite in Asian cuisine for its rich, dry texture.
Mower County, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 28 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 162 days.
At an elevation of 577 feet, Mower County receives approximately 33 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 82°F, so choose short-season varieties of Kabocha to ensure they mature before fall.
Mower County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.3-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Kabocha
Kabocha needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Kabocha Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 2.8" | 1.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Mower County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Kabocha Planting Timeline — Mower County, MN
Kabocha Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 17 | Mar 17 – Mar 31 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 19 | May 19 – Jun 2 |
| Direct Sow | May 12 | May 12 – Jun 2 |
| Harvest | August 18 | Aug 18 – Sep 15 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
85–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 4b
📆 Growing Season
162 days in Mower County
Growing Tips for Mower County
Direct sow after frost or start indoors. Harvest when the skin is hard and dull. The stem should be dry and corky. Stores well for 3-4 months in a cool, dry place.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Kabocha in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kabocha in Mower County, MN?
Mower County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of April 28. Plan your Kabocha planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Mower County, MN?
Mower County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 28 and first fall frost is October 7.
When should I plant Kabocha in Mower County, MN?
In Mower County, MN, plant Kabocha after the last frost (around April 28) and before the first frost (around October 7). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Mower County, MN for Kabocha?
Mower County sits in USDA Zone 4b. Kabocha grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Kabocha grow in Mower County's climate?
Yes — Kabocha grows well in Mower County's temperate climate. Mower County averages a 162-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 28 and first frost around October 7.
Your Mower County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Mower County (Zone 4b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.