When to plant Squash (Summer) in Franklin County, MO
In Franklin County, plant Squash (Summer) in spring between April 17 and May 8, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Franklin County's last frost averages April 10, 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 27.
When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Franklin County, MO
Summer squash includes zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan varieties that are harvested young and tender. They are prolific producers in warm weather.
Franklin County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 10 and the first fall frost is October 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 200 days.
At an elevation of 1,180 feet, Franklin County receives approximately 38.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Squash (Summer) during the growing season.
Franklin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Squash (Summer) Planting Timeline — Franklin County, MO
Squash (Summer) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 6 | Mar 6 – Mar 20 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 8 |
| Direct Sow | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 8 |
| Harvest | June 12 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 |
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
200 days in Franklin County
Growing Tips for Franklin 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 Franklin County, MO?
Franklin County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 10. Plan your Squash (Summer) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Franklin County, MO?
Franklin County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 10 and first fall frost is October 27.
When should I plant Squash (Summer) in Franklin County, MO?
In Franklin County, MO, plant Squash (Summer) after the last frost (around April 10) and before the first frost (around October 27). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Franklin County, MO for Squash (Summer)?
Franklin 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 Franklin County's climate?
Yes — Squash (Summer) grows well in Franklin County's temperate climate. Franklin County averages a 200-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 10 and first frost around October 27.
Your Franklin County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Franklin 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.