When can I plant squash in my vegetable garden?

Question:

When can I plant squash in my vegetable garden?

Answer:

Summer and winter squash are warm-season crops.  Plant squash after the danger of frost is past.  In central Iowa, summer and winter squash can be planted in mid-May.  Gardeners in southern Iowa can plant 1 week earlier.  Plant 1 week later in northern portions of the state.  Winter squash should be planted by mid-June.  The last practical planting date for summer squash is mid-July.