Squash is one of the easiest and most rewarding crops you can grow in your Arizona garden! Whether you’re dreaming of tender summer squashes or hearty winter varieties like butternut, acorn, or spaghetti squash, this versatile plant is a garden powerhouse. With a little care, each plant can yield up to 10 pounds of produce!
So, are you ready to fill your garden beds with delicious homegrown squash? Below I’ll share tips on the when and where to plant and how to care for squash.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policies.
Winter vs. Summer Squash: What’s the Difference?
Originally published October 18, 2022— Last updated September 5, 2026
In most parts of the country, winter and summer squash are planted at different times of the year. But in Phoenix both types can be planted in the same growing seasons: Spring and Summer!
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Summer squash (like zucchini and yellow crookneck) is fast-growing and best enjoyed fresh. The skin on summer squashes is edible.
- Winter squash (like butternut, hubbard, acorn, and spaghetti squash) takes a bit longer to mature but stores beautifully for months.
When to Plant Squash in Phoenix
Squash are warm season plants. They take a lot of space in a garden, however they also produce a lot, Plant squash in the months of July, August, February, March and April.
Squash thrives in warm soil, so timing is key. In Phoenix, you can plant squash during these months:
- Spring: February, March, and April
- Summer: July and August
How to Grow Squash
Plant seeds about 1 inch deep, and you’ll see seedlings pop up in as little as 7–14 days. Before you know it, your squash plants will sprawl across your garden bed, growing up to 4 feet wide and 2.5 feet tall!
Pro Tip: If you’re short on space, try using a trellis to grow squash vertically. It’s a great way to save room in your garden while keeping your plants healthy and tidy.
⏱ Squash
Gardening Tip. If you’re short on space, try using a trellis to grow squash vertically. It’s a great way to save room in your garden.
How to Care For Squash: What Does Squash Need to Grow?
Light Requirements: Squash needs morning sun or about 6-8 hours of sun a day.
Soil Requirements: Prefers fertile well-drained soil. Squash like most vine crops prefer slightly acidic pH. The soil pH range of 6- 6.5 is ideal.
Water Requirements: Squash like consistent moisture. Provide 1″ of water per week or as needed.
Provide squash with a trellis and train them to climb vertically to save space in the garden bed.
What to Plant with Squash
Companion Plants for Squash
Radishes and nasturtiums are great companion plants for squash. They help repel insects.
Squash thrives alongside certain plants while others should be avoided. Here’s a quick guide:
- Best companions: Radishes and nasturtiums are excellent for repelling pests like squash bugs. Plus, nasturtiums are gorgeous in your garden!
- Plants to avoid: Keep squash away from potatoes, as they can compete for nutrients and space.
When to Harvest Squash in Phoenix
Squash plants take 60-90 days from the day of planting until harvest day. Squash planted in March would be ready for harvest in May and June. If planted in the summer squash is ready to harvest October and November.
Timing your harvest depends on the type of squash you’re growing:
- Summer squash: Harvest when fruits are small and tender, about 6–8 inches long. Pick them often to encourage more production.
- Winter squash: Wait until the skin is hard and difficult to pierce with your fingernail. This usually takes 60–90 days from planting.
With just a little planning, these prolific plants will fill your garden with an abundance of fresh produce.
Whether you’re grilling zucchini or roasting butternut, there’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown. Grab your seeds, prepare your garden bed, and let’s get growing!
More Phoenix Vegetables To Grow
→ Tomatoes
→ Zucchini
→ Peppers
→ Eggplant
→ Beans
Start Here
→ Growing Vegetables in Phoenix
→ How to Start a Vegetable Garden
→ What to Plant Now
