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Can You Grow Cantaloupe in New Jersey?

US · USDA Zone 6b · zones 6a, 6b, 7a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11a

New Jersey last frost

mid-March

New Jersey first frost

mid-November

Days to harvest

70–100 days

When to plant Cantaloupes in New Jersey

Start indoors

Feb 14

Transplant

Mar 15

Harvest

May 24 – Jun 23

Dates are approximate, based on New Jersey'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 New Jersey

New Jersey has a humid subtropical to continental climate. South Jersey is Zone 7a; North Jersey is Zone 6a-6b. Known for its produce farming — tomatoes, blueberries, cranberries.

See what grows well in New Jersey →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Cantaloupe in New Jersey?

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

What zone is New Jersey?

New Jersey spans USDA Zone 6b (6a, 6b, 7a).

When do you plant Cantaloupes in New Jersey?

Plant Cantaloupes around mid-March (start indoors Feb 14), harvest May 24 – Jun 23.