Squash, belonging to the Cucurbita genus, is a popular warm-season crop that thrives in Georgia’s climate when planted correctly. The timing of planting depends entirely on whether the variety is a summer or a winter squash. Summer squash, such as zucchini and yellow crookneck, are harvested immaturely, typically within 40 to 60 days of planting. Winter squash varieties, including butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash, require a much longer growing period to reach full maturity. This results in a hard rind that allows for long-term storage. Success relies heavily on planting after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has reached the necessary warmth.
Understanding Georgia’s Regional Climate Zones
Georgia’s north-to-south expanse and varying elevations create distinct climate zones that influence the safe planting window. The state is categorized into three growing regions, each with a different average last spring frost date. This date establishes the earliest point when tender squash plants can be safely established outdoors without risk of cold damage.
The mountainous terrain of North Georgia experiences the latest spring frosts, typically occurring from late April through early May. This region has the most restrictive planting calendar due to colder temperatures and a shorter growing season.
Central Georgia, encompassing the Piedmont region, sees the average last spring frost earlier, often between late March and mid-April.
The southernmost part of the state, including the Coastal Plain, benefits from the mildest winters and the earliest last spring frost dates. Growers here can often safely plant in mid-February to early March, extending their overall growing season. Understanding the local frost date is the baseline, but soil temperature is equally important for seed germination.
Planting Schedules for Summer Squash
Summer squash varieties mature quickly, typically in 35 to 45 days, making them ideal for multiple plantings throughout the growing season. Direct seeding should begin two to three weeks after the last expected spring frost date. This delay ensures the soil is warm enough to support vigorous germination and growth.
The primary technique for maximizing yield is succession planting, where small batches of seeds are sown every 10 to 14 days. This staggered schedule ensures a continuous supply of young, tender fruit and prevents the common “squash glut.”
The final succession planting must be timed so the fruit matures before the first expected fall frost date, which generally falls between early October and late November in Georgia. To calculate the final planting date, subtract the variety’s days-to-maturity (e.g., 40 days) from the predicted fall frost date. Planting later in the season increases the risk of disease and insect pressure, which can curtail production.
Planting Schedules for Winter Squash
Winter squash varieties, such as pumpkins, acorn, and spaghetti squash, demand a longer growing period, ranging from 80 to 120 days to full maturity. Since the fruit must mature completely on the vine and develop a hard rind for storage, the planting schedule is determined by the date of the first fall frost. Planting too late results in immature fruit that stores poorly and is susceptible to cold damage.
The typical planting window in most of Georgia is generally from late May through early July, depending on the region and the variety’s days to maturity. For a long-season variety requiring 120 days, planting must occur by mid-June to ensure harvest before a mid-October frost.
In regions with a shorter growing season, like North Georgia, growers may start seeds indoors. Starting seeds in peat pots two to four weeks before the last spring frost date provides a head start. Since squash seedlings do not transplant well, they must be handled gently to avoid root disturbance when moving them outdoors.
Required Environmental Conditions and Timing for Pest Mitigation
Soil Temperature Requirements
Beyond the calendar date, soil temperature is a factor for successful squash germination and growth. Squash is a warm-season crop, and seeds require soil that is consistently 60°F or higher to germinate reliably. The optimum soil temperature for germination is closer to 70°F. Checking the soil temperature at a depth of one to two inches for several consecutive mornings is a more accurate indicator of readiness than relying solely on the calendar.
Timing for Pest Mitigation
A strategic adjustment of planting time can serve as a defense against the Squash Vine Borer (SVB), a major destructive pest in Georgia. Adult SVB moths typically emerge and begin laying eggs around May, with activity continuing through mid-August. The first generation of larvae is the most damaging to young plants.
One effective strategy is to plant as early as possible, right after the soil reaches the minimum temperature. This ensures the plants are established and producing fruit before the SVB moths become active.
Conversely, a slightly delayed second planting in late June or early July can sometimes miss the peak egg-laying period of the first generation entirely. This timing adjustment allows the plant to grow past the vulnerable seedling stage before the borers emerge, providing a practical, non-chemical mitigation strategy.