Warm-Season Vegetable

When to Plant Squash (Summer) in Florida

Zucchini and yellow squash are the garden's most generous producers. You'll be sharing with neighbors by midsummer.

The Short Answer

Florida's squash season follows the state's inverted calendar — plant in early fall through winter in south Florida, and in spring through early summer in north Florida before the worst heat and disease pressure arrives. Summer squash is one of the most popular vegetables in Florida home gardens, partly because it produces so quickly that you can get a harvest before the summer disease gauntlet sets in.

Florida Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Florida you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
North Florida 8a, 8b, 9a Feb 15 - Mar 10 Nov 15 - Dec 10
Central Florida 9a, 9b, 10a Jan 15 - Feb 10 Dec 10 - Jan 5
South Florida 10a, 10b, 11a Rare Rare

Squash (Summer) Planting Schedule for Florida

North Florida (Zones 8a, 8b, 9a)

Average last frost: Feb 15 - Mar 10 · Average first frost: Nov 15 - Dec 10

Start Seeds Indoors
3 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost
Direct Sow
2 wks after frost

Central Florida (Zones 9a, 9b, 10a)

Average last frost: Jan 15 - Feb 10 · Average first frost: Dec 10 - Jan 5

Start Seeds Indoors
3 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost
Direct Sow
2 wks after frost

South Florida (Zones 10a, 10b, 11a)

Average last frost: Rare · Average first frost: Rare

Start Seeds Indoors
3 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost
Direct Sow
2 wks after frost

Growing Squash (Summer) in Florida

State-Specific Growing Tips

North Florida: direct sow from late February through April for spring harvest, and again in August-September for fall. Central Florida: plant from January through March, and September through October. South Florida: October through February is prime squash season. Florida's sandy soils need heavy amendment — mix in 3-4 inches of compost before planting. Mulch immediately to retain the moisture that sand releases so quickly. Stake or trellis vining varieties to improve air circulation, which reduces the fungal diseases that thrive in Florida's humidity.

Recommended Varieties for Florida

UF/IFAS Extension recommends Straightneck Early Prolific, Crookneck, and Zucchini Elite for Florida conditions. For winter squash, Seminole Pumpkin is the clear winner — this Florida native is adapted to the state's heat, humidity, and pest pressure in ways that no northern variety can match. It's practically a weed in terms of vigor. Calabaza (tropical pumpkin) also thrives.

Common Challenges in Florida

Downy mildew, powdery mildew, and gummy stem blight are the disease trifecta in Florida's humid conditions. Plant during the drier months when possible. Pickle worm bores into developing fruits — it's devastating in south Florida and arrives later in the season in north Florida. Whiteflies transmit viruses that cause leaf curling and stunted growth. Nematodes in sandy soils attack roots — rotate locations and use Seminole Pumpkin's natural resistance.

Growing Tips

Harvest when fruits are 6-8 inches long for best flavor. Larger squash become seedy and tough.

Companion Planting

Plant squash (summer) alongside these companions for better growth:

Corn Beans Nasturtiums

Keep squash (summer) away from:

Potatoes

The Bottom Line

Squash (Summer) can be grown successfully in Florida with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — North Florida gardeners work with a last frost around Feb 15 - Mar 10, while South Florida sees frost end around Rare. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Squash (Summer) Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Florida Planting Calendar All plants for Florida Squash (Summer) in Alabama Alabama planting dates Squash (Summer) in Alaska Alaska planting dates Squash (Summer) in Arizona Arizona planting dates Squash (Summer) in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

Ready to Start Planting?

Enter your zip code and pick your plant. We'll tell you exactly when to plant, start seeds, and harvest — based on where you live.

Find Your Planting Dates