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Can You Grow Cantaloupe in Mississippi?

US · USDA Zone 8a · zones 7b, 8a, 8b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11a

Mississippi last frost

mid-February

Mississippi first frost

early December

Days to harvest

70–100 days

When to plant Cantaloupes in Mississippi

Start indoors

Jan 18

Transplant

Feb 15

Harvest

Apr 26 – May 26

Dates are approximate, based on Mississippi'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 Mississippi

Mississippi has a humid subtropical climate with long hot summers and mild winters. Two growing seasons are achievable most years. Excellent for sweet potatoes, okra, and southern vegetables.

See what grows well in Mississippi →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Cantaloupe in Mississippi?

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

What zone is Mississippi?

Mississippi spans USDA Zone 8a (7b, 8a, 8b).

When do you plant Cantaloupes in Mississippi?

Plant Cantaloupes around mid-February (start indoors Jan 18), harvest Apr 26 – May 26.