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Can You Grow Cantaloupe in New York?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 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

New York last frost

early April

New York first frost

late October

Days to harvest

70–100 days

When to plant Cantaloupes in New York

Start indoors

Mar 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

Jun 10 – Jul 10

Dates are approximate, based on New York'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 York

New York ranges from Zone 6b in New York City to Zone 4a in the Adirondacks. Western New York near Lake Erie has a unique microclimate excellent for Concord grapes.

See what grows well in New York →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Cantaloupe in New York?

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

What zone is New York?

New York spans USDA Zone 6a (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b).

When do you plant Cantaloupes in New York?

Plant Cantaloupes around early April (start indoors Mar 3), harvest Jun 10 – Jul 10.