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Can You Grow Watermelon in Pennsylvania?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4b–11b

Pennsylvania last frost

early April

Pennsylvania first frost

late October

Days to harvest

70–90 days

When to plant Watermelons in Pennsylvania

Start indoors

Mar 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

Jun 10 – Jun 30

Dates are approximate, based on Pennsylvania'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 Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a humid continental climate. Philadelphia is Zone 7a; Pittsburgh is Zone 6a; northern Pennsylvania is Zone 5a-5b. Four distinct seasons with a 6-7 month growing window.