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Can You Grow Watermelon in Hawaii?

US · USDA Zone 12b · zones 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b

Won't grow here

Watermelons need a long warm season (70-90 days above 25°C) that this zone cannot reliably provide.

Plant zones

4b–11b

Hawaii last frost

no frost

Hawaii first frost

no frost

Days to harvest

70–90 days

When to plant Watermelons in Hawaii

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 1

Harvest

Mar 12 – Apr 1

Dates are approximate, based on Hawaii'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 Hawaii

Hawaii is tropical with year-round warmth. Zone varies dramatically by elevation — coastal areas are Zone 11-12 while Mauna Kea slopes reach Zone 9. Year-round growing throughout.

See what grows well in Hawaii →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Watermelon in Hawaii?

Watermelons need a long warm season (70-90 days above 25°C) that this zone cannot reliably provide.

What zone is Hawaii?

Hawaii spans USDA Zone 12b (9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b).

When do you plant Watermelons in Hawaii?

Plant Watermelons around no frost (start indoors Jan 1), harvest Mar 12 – Apr 1.