When to Plant Zucchini in Alger County, MI
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.
Alger County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 10 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 159 days.
At an elevation of 1,014 feet, Alger County receives approximately 40.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Zucchini to ensure they mature before fall.
Alger County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.1
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
Zucchini Planting Timeline — Alger County, MI
Zucchini Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 31 | May 31 – Jun 14 |
| Direct Sow | May 24 | May 24 – Jun 14 |
| Harvest | July 19 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| 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
45–60 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 4b
Growing Season
159 days
Growing Tips for Alger 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 Alger County, MI?
Alger County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of May 10. Plan your Zucchini planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Alger County, MI?
Alger County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 10 and first fall frost is October 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Alger County gardeners in Zone 4b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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