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Can You Grow Cantaloupe in Louisiana?

US · USDA Zone 8b · zones 8a, 8b, 9a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11a

Louisiana last frost

late January

Louisiana first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

70–100 days

When to plant Cantaloupes in Louisiana

Start indoors

Jan 2

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

Apr 10 – May 10

Dates are approximate, based on Louisiana'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 Louisiana

Louisiana has a humid subtropical climate with very mild winters and long hot summers. Year-round cool-season growing is possible; the summer is the only limiting factor.