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Can You Grow Cantaloupe in Ohio?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11a

Ohio last frost

early April

Ohio first frost

late October

Days to harvest

70–100 days

When to plant Cantaloupes in Ohio

Start indoors

Mar 10

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 16 – Jul 16

Dates are approximate, based on Ohio'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 Ohio

Ohio has a humid continental climate. Northern Ohio near Lake Erie is Zone 6a; inland areas are Zone 5b. Four seasons with a productive 6-month growing window.