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Can You Grow Butternut Squash in Tennessee?

US · USDA Zone 6b · zones 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–10b

Tennessee last frost

mid-March

Tennessee first frost

mid-November

Days to harvest

100–120 days

When to plant Butternut Squashes in Tennessee

Start indoors

Feb 14

Transplant

Mar 15

Harvest

Jun 23 – Jul 13

Dates are approximate, based on Tennessee'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 Tennessee

Tennessee has a humid subtropical climate transitioning to continental in the east. Nashville is Zone 7a; the Appalachians are Zone 6a-6b. Long productive growing seasons.