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Can You Grow Cantaloupe in Colorado?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b

Grows well here

Cantaloupe grows well here — it loves heat and full sun and will reward you with sweet fruit.

Plant zones

4a–11a

Colorado last frost

early April

Colorado first frost

late October

Days to harvest

70–100 days

When to plant Cantaloupes in Colorado

Start indoors

Mar 10

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 16 – Jul 16

Dates are approximate, based on Colorado's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Cantaloupe

Cantaloupe (muskmelon) is a sweet, fragrant summer melon that needs real heat and full sun to develop its sugar. Slip off the vine when ripe.

Start indoors 3-4 weeks before last frost or direct sow after frost in warm soil. Thin to 18-24 inches. Harvest when the melon slips easily from the vine with light pressure.

Full cantaloupe growing guide →

Gardening in Colorado

Colorado has a semi-arid mountain climate with intense sunshine and low humidity. Front Range cities like Denver are Zone 5-6; higher elevations are Zones 3-4.

See what grows well in Colorado →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Cantaloupe in Colorado?

Cantaloupe grows well here — it loves heat and full sun and will reward you with sweet fruit.

What zone is Colorado?

Colorado spans USDA Zone 5b (3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b).

When do you plant Cantaloupes in Colorado?

Plant Cantaloupes around early April (start indoors Mar 10), harvest Jun 16 – Jul 16.