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Can You Grow Cantaloupe in Washington?

US · USDA Zone 8b · zones 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 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

Washington last frost

late January

Washington first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

70–100 days

When to plant Cantaloupes in Washington

Start indoors

Jan 2

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

Apr 10 – May 10

Dates are approximate, based on Washington'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 Washington

Washington has dramatically different climates. The wet maritime west (Zone 8a-8b) is mild and productive year-round. Eastern Washington is semi-arid and colder (Zone 5-6) with hot dry summers.

See what grows well in Washington →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Cantaloupe in Washington?

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

What zone is Washington?

Washington spans USDA Zone 8b (4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b).

When do you plant Cantaloupes in Washington?

Plant Cantaloupes around late January (start indoors Jan 2), harvest Apr 10 – May 10.