When to Plant Zucchini in Warren County, IL
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.
Warren County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 13 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 191 days.
At an elevation of 801 feet, Warren County receives approximately 36.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Zucchini during the growing season.
Warren County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-6.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant 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.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Zucchini Planting Timeline — Warren County, IL
Zucchini Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 9 | Mar 9 – Mar 23 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 27 | Apr 27 – May 11 |
| Direct Sow | April 20 | Apr 20 – May 11 |
| Harvest | June 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 |
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
45–60 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 5a
Growing Season
191 days
Growing Tips for Warren County
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
Level Up Your Garden
Zucchini in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Zucchini in Warren County, IL?
Warren County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 13. Plan your Zucchini planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Warren County, IL?
Warren County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 13 and first fall frost is October 21.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Warren County gardeners in Zone 5a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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