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Can You Grow Honeydew in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Honeydew grows well here with a long warm summer and plenty of sun.

Plant zones

4a–11a

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

80–110 days

When to plant Honeydews in California

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 10

Harvest

Mar 31 – Apr 30

Dates are approximate, based on California's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Honeydew

Honeydew melons are smooth-skinned, pale-fleshed, and intensely sweet when ripened in real summer heat. A bit slower than cantaloupe but worth the wait.

Start indoors 3-4 weeks before last frost. Thin to 24 inches. Harvest when the blossom end yields slightly to pressure and the melon smells sweet.

Full honeydew growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.

See what grows well in California →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Honeydew in California?

Honeydew grows well here with a long warm summer and plenty of sun.

What zone is California?

California spans USDA Zone 9b (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b).

When do you plant Honeydews in California?

Plant Honeydews around mid-January (start indoors Jan 1), harvest Mar 31 – Apr 30.