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Can You Grow Watermelon in New York?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4b–11b

New York last frost

early April

New York first frost

late October

Days to harvest

70–90 days

When to plant Watermelons in New York

Start indoors

Mar 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

Jun 10 – Jun 30

Dates are approximate, based on New York'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 York

New York ranges from Zone 6b in New York City to Zone 4a in the Adirondacks. Western New York near Lake Erie has a unique microclimate excellent for Concord grapes.

See what grows well in New York →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Watermelon in New York?

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

What zone is New York?

New York spans USDA Zone 6a (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b).

When do you plant Watermelons in New York?

Plant Watermelons around early April (start indoors Mar 3), harvest Jun 10 – Jun 30.