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Can You Grow Winter Squash in Maryland?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–10b

Maryland last frost

early March

Maryland first frost

late November

Days to harvest

90–120 days

When to plant Winter Squashes in Maryland

Start indoors

Feb 7

Transplant

Mar 7

Harvest

Jun 5 – Jul 5

Dates are approximate, based on Maryland'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 Maryland

Maryland has a humid subtropical climate moderated by the Chesapeake Bay. Four distinct seasons with mild winters in most of the state. Long productive growing season.