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Can You Grow Watermelon in Arkansas?

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

Grows well here

Watermelons thrive here — they love the long warm season your zone provides.

Plant zones

4b–11b

Arkansas last frost

early March

Arkansas first frost

late November

Days to harvest

70–90 days

When to plant Watermelons in Arkansas

Start indoors

Feb 7

Transplant

Mar 7

Harvest

May 16 – Jun 5

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

About Watermelon

Watermelons love heat space and sun — they are a rewarding crop but need a long warm season.

Start indoors 4 weeks before last frost. Transplant carefully — watermelons hate root disturbance. Give them maximum space. Use black plastic mulch to warm soil. Choose icebox varieties for containers.

Full watermelon growing guide →

Gardening in Arkansas

Arkansas has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Long warm summers support a wide range of vegetables and fruits. The Ozarks are slightly cooler.