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Can You Grow Watermelon in North Carolina?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4b–11b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

70–90 days

When to plant Watermelons in North Carolina

Start indoors

Jan 31

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

May 9 – May 29

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina'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 North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.

See what grows well in North Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Watermelon in North Carolina?

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

What zone is North Carolina?

North Carolina spans USDA Zone 7b (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a).

When do you plant Watermelons in North Carolina?

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