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Can You Grow Winter Squash in North Carolina?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–10b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

90–120 days

When to plant Winter Squashes in North Carolina

Start indoors

Jan 31

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

May 29 – Jun 28

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina'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 North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.

See what grows well in North Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Winter Squash in North Carolina?

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

What zone is North Carolina?

North Carolina spans USDA Zone 7b (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a).

When do you plant Winter Squashes in North Carolina?

Plant Winter Squashes around late February (start indoors Jan 31), harvest May 29 – Jun 28.