When to plant Squash (Summer) in Benton County, MO
In Benton County, plant Squash (Summer) in spring between April 16 and May 7, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Benton County's last frost averages April 9, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 45–65 days before the first frost on October 25.
When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Benton County, MO
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Benton County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 25, giving you a growing season of approximately 199 days.
At an elevation of 1,323 feet, Benton County receives approximately 39.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Squash (Summer) during the growing season.
Benton County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Benton County, MO
Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 5 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 23 | Apr 23 – May 7 |
| Direct Sow | April 16 | Apr 16 – May 7 |
| Harvest | June 11 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 |
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
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
45–65 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
199 days in Benton County
Growing Tips for Benton 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 Benton County, MO?
Benton County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Benton County, MO?
Benton County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 25.
When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Benton County, MO?
In Benton County, MO, plant Squash (Summer) after the last frost (around April 9) and before the first frost (around October 25). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Benton County, MO for Squash (Summer)?
Benton County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Squash (Summer) grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Squash (Summer) grow in Benton County's climate?
Yes — Squash (Summer) grows well in Benton County's temperate climate. Benton County averages a 199-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 25.
Your Benton County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Benton County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.