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Can You Grow Cantaloupe in Virginia?

US · USDA Zone 7a · zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11a

Virginia last frost

early March

Virginia first frost

late November

Days to harvest

70–100 days

When to plant Cantaloupes in Virginia

Start indoors

Feb 7

Transplant

Mar 7

Harvest

May 16 – Jun 15

Dates are approximate, based on Virginia'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 Virginia

Virginia ranges from Zone 5b in the mountains to Zone 7b on the coast. The Shenandoah Valley is Zone 6b-7a. Four seasons with a long productive growing window in most areas.

See what grows well in Virginia →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Cantaloupe in Virginia?

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

What zone is Virginia?

Virginia spans USDA Zone 7a (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b).

When do you plant Cantaloupes in Virginia?

Plant Cantaloupes around early March (start indoors Feb 7), harvest May 16 – Jun 15.