Home › Butternut Squash › Grow in Louisiana

Can You Grow Butternut Squash in Louisiana?

US · USDA Zone 8b · zones 8a, 8b, 9a

Grows well here

Butternut squash thrives here with warm, frost-free summers and full sun.

Plant zones

3a–10b

Louisiana last frost

late January

Louisiana first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

100–120 days

When to plant Butternut Squashes in Louisiana

Start indoors

Jan 2

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

May 10 – May 30

Dates are approximate, based on Louisiana's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is the most popular winter squash — sweet, smooth, and superb for storage. A vigorous vining plant that needs warm weather and room to sprawl.

Direct sow after last frost or start indoors 3-4 weeks earlier. Harvest when skin turns tan and hard. Cure 1-2 weeks in a warm spot before storing in a cool dry place.

Full butternut squash growing guide →

Gardening in Louisiana

Louisiana has a humid subtropical climate with very mild winters and long hot summers. Year-round cool-season growing is possible; the summer is the only limiting factor.