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Can You Grow Winter Squash in Iowa?

US · USDA Zone 5a · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b

Grows well here

Winter squash grows well here with warm summers — it needs heat to mature and set fruit.

Plant zones

3a–10b

Iowa last frost

mid-April

Iowa first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

90–120 days

When to plant Winter Squashes in Iowa

Start indoors

Mar 18

Transplant

Apr 15

Harvest

Jul 14 – Aug 13

Dates are approximate, based on Iowa'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 Iowa

Iowa has a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Most of the state is Zone 5a-5b. Excellent for cool-season crops and hardy fruits.