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Can You Grow Winter Squash in Pennsylvania?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 5a, 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

Pennsylvania last frost

early April

Pennsylvania first frost

late October

Days to harvest

90–120 days

When to plant Winter Squashes in Pennsylvania

Start indoors

Mar 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

Jun 30 – Jul 30

Dates are approximate, based on Pennsylvania'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 Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a humid continental climate. Philadelphia is Zone 7a; Pittsburgh is Zone 6a; northern Pennsylvania is Zone 5a-5b. Four distinct seasons with a 6-7 month growing window.