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Can You Grow Winter Squash in Massachusetts?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 5b, 6a, 6b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–10b

Massachusetts last frost

early April

Massachusetts first frost

late October

Days to harvest

90–120 days

When to plant Winter Squashes in Massachusetts

Start indoors

Mar 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

Jun 30 – Jul 30

Dates are approximate, based on Massachusetts'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 Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a humid continental climate. Boston and coastal areas are Zone 6a-6b; inland areas are colder at Zone 5b-6a. Four seasons with a 5-6 month growing window.