When to Plant Squash (Summer) in New Mexico
Zucchini and yellow squash are the garden's most generous producers. You'll be sharing with neighbors by midsummer.
The Short Answer
New Mexico Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of New Mexico you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern New Mexico | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b | May 5 - May 25 | Sep 15 - Oct 5 |
| Central New Mexico (Albuquerque) | 7a, 7b | Apr 1 - Apr 20 | Oct 15 - Nov 5 |
| Southern New Mexico | 7b, 8a, 8b | Mar 15 - Apr 5 | Oct 25 - Nov 15 |
Squash (Summer) Planting Schedule for New Mexico
Northern New Mexico (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b)
Average last frost: May 5 - May 25 · Average first frost: Sep 15 - Oct 5
Central New Mexico (Albuquerque) (Zones 7a, 7b)
Average last frost: Apr 1 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 15 - Nov 5
Southern New Mexico (Zones 7b, 8a, 8b)
Average last frost: Mar 15 - Apr 5 · Average first frost: Oct 25 - Nov 15
Growing Squash (Summer) in New Mexico
Squash (Summer) in New Mexico's Climate
Squash grows during the cooler months in subtropical zones. Plant from September through February. Summer squash matures quickly enough to succeed even in Florida's compressed cool window. Pickle worm is a devastating fruit pest in the Deep South that northern growers never encounter.
Soil Considerations for New Mexico
Alkaline desert soils. Low organic matter. Caliche layers common. Heavy amendment with compost essential. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 60°F before planting squash (summer) outside.
New Mexico Climate & Growing Season
High desert climate. Intense sun. Low humidity. Wide temperature swings day to night. Irrigation essential. Squash (Summer) cannot tolerate any frost, so wait until all frost danger has passed before transplanting outside. Watch local forecasts carefully in spring.
Growing season length varies across New Mexico: Northern New Mexico (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b) has a last frost around May 5 - May 25, while Southern New Mexico (7b, 8a, 8b) sees frost end around Mar 15 - Apr 5. This difference matters for squash (summer) — transplant timing shifts by several weeks across the state.
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:
Keep squash (summer) away from:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026