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Can You Grow Watermelon in Mississippi?

US · USDA Zone 8a · zones 7b, 8a, 8b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4b–11b

Mississippi last frost

mid-February

Mississippi first frost

early December

Days to harvest

70–90 days

When to plant Watermelons in Mississippi

Start indoors

Jan 18

Transplant

Feb 15

Harvest

Apr 26 – May 16

Dates are approximate, based on Mississippi'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 Mississippi

Mississippi has a humid subtropical climate with long hot summers and mild winters. Two growing seasons are achievable most years. Excellent for sweet potatoes, okra, and southern vegetables.

See what grows well in Mississippi →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Watermelon in Mississippi?

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

What zone is Mississippi?

Mississippi spans USDA Zone 8a (7b, 8a, 8b).

When do you plant Watermelons in Mississippi?

Plant Watermelons around mid-February (start indoors Jan 18), harvest Apr 26 – May 16.