How Long Does Summer Squash Produce?

Summer squash harvest periods vary.

Summer squash are a wonderful addition to any vegetable garden. They are easy to grow, prolific and versatile in the kitchen. There are many different varieties, and they all produce a slightly different crop, but most summer squash plants produce for about three to four months.

Planting Date

Once producing, summer squash will generally continue to grow vegetables for the remainder of the season--namely, summer. You can first plant the squash after the last frost date, and then should experience several months of squash after squash after squash. If you plant your squash later in the season, your plant will only produce until the first frost comes, which varies for each zone.

Zones

Finding out your "hardiness zone" will tell you how long your summer squash season will be. North America is divided into 11 zones, each with its own average first and last frost dates. You can visit garden.org to calculate your zone. The coolest zones, in the northern most part of the country, should allow you about two months of squash production. The warmest zones, in the south of the country, can allow six or seven months of squash production.

Pests

Many things can inhibit your summer squash from producing regularly. Bugs, squirrels, other wildlife and even mold can eat away at your plants, and reduce your production capabilities. Using insecticides, pesticides and fungicides can reduce the risk of such occurrences. You also can get netting and fencing to keep away larger animals.

References

• Garden: Plant Care Guides
• Whole Foods Blog: Summer Squash
• Avant Gardening: Hardiness Zones of the USA