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Can You Grow Watermelon in New Mexico?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4b–11b

New Mexico last frost

late February

New Mexico first frost

early December

Days to harvest

70–90 days

When to plant Watermelons in New Mexico

Start indoors

Jan 31

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

May 9 – May 29

Dates are approximate, based on New Mexico'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 New Mexico

New Mexico has an arid continental climate. Albuquerque is Zone 7a; Santa Fe is Zone 6b; southern desert areas are Zone 8a-9a. Low humidity means dramatic temperature swings.

See what grows well in New Mexico →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Watermelon in New Mexico?

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

What zone is New Mexico?

New Mexico spans USDA Zone 7b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a).

When do you plant Watermelons in New Mexico?

Plant Watermelons around late February (start indoors Jan 31), harvest May 9 – May 29.