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Can You Grow Winter Squash in Hawaii?

US · USDA Zone 12b · zones 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b

Won't grow here

Winter squash needs 90+ warm frost-free days to mature fully — too short a season leaves fruit immature.

Plant zones

3a–10b

Hawaii last frost

no frost

Hawaii first frost

no frost

Days to harvest

90–120 days

When to plant Winter Squashes in Hawaii

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 1

Harvest

Apr 1 – May 1

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

About Winter Squash

Winter squash (butternut, acorn, spaghetti) are the long-storing hard-skinned squash you plant in spring and harvest in fall. Vigorous, sprawling, and highly productive.

Direct sow or start indoors 4 weeks before last frost; transplant after frost. Give vines room (6-8 ft) or a trellis. Harvest when skin is hard and you can't dent it with a fingernail. Cure in a warm place for 1-2 weeks for long storage.

Full winter squash growing guide →

Gardening in Hawaii

Hawaii is tropical with year-round warmth. Zone varies dramatically by elevation — coastal areas are Zone 11-12 while Mauna Kea slopes reach Zone 9. Year-round growing throughout.

See what grows well in Hawaii →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Winter Squash in Hawaii?

Winter squash needs 90+ warm frost-free days to mature fully — too short a season leaves fruit immature.

What zone is Hawaii?

Hawaii spans USDA Zone 12b (9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b).

When do you plant Winter Squashes in Hawaii?

Plant Winter Squashes around no frost (start indoors Jan 1), harvest Apr 1 – May 1.