When to Plant Acorn Squash in Florida

Growing Acorn Squash in Florida: Complete Guide

Acorn Squash (Cucurbita pepo) is a warm-season crop that needs a head start indoors before Florida's last frost. Most Florida gardeners begin seeds indoors around Friday, December 4, 2026 and move transplants outside around Friday, January 15, 2027, after the risk of frost has passed.

Because Florida stretches across 7 USDA hardiness zones (8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b), planting windows can shift by as much as six to eight weeks from one end of the state to the other. Gardeners in the warmer southern zones can start earlier, while those in cooler northern zones should wait until the zone table above shows their last frost has passed.

With 85 days to maturity, Acorn Squash needs the indoor head start that Florida's growing season requires. Starting indoors ensures you have strong transplants ready the moment outdoor conditions are right.

Acorn Squash requires full sun (6-8 hours) and regular (1 inch/week) moisture. Southeastern summers are hot and humid; mulch heavily to retain moisture and shade roots during peak heat.

For the most precise planting dates tailored to your exact location, enter your ZIP code on our planting calendar or use the zone table above to find the schedule for your area of Florida.