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Can You Grow Watermelon in Minnesota?

US · USDA Zone 4a · zones 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b

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

Minnesota last frost

late April

Minnesota first frost

early October

Days to harvest

70–90 days

When to plant Watermelons in Minnesota

Start indoors

Mar 28

Transplant

Apr 25

Harvest

Jul 4 – Jul 24

Dates are approximate, based on Minnesota'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 Minnesota

Minnesota has a cold humid continental climate. The Twin Cities are Zone 4b-5a; northern Minnesota reaches Zone 2b-3a. Cold winters but warm productive summers.

See what grows well in Minnesota →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Watermelon in Minnesota?

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

What zone is Minnesota?

Minnesota spans USDA Zone 4a (2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b).

When do you plant Watermelons in Minnesota?

Plant Watermelons around late April (start indoors Mar 28), harvest Jul 4 – Jul 24.