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Can You Grow Watermelon in South Carolina?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4b–11b

South Carolina last frost

mid-February

South Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

70–90 days

When to plant Watermelons in South Carolina

Start indoors

Jan 18

Transplant

Feb 15

Harvest

Apr 26 – May 16

Dates are approximate, based on South 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 South Carolina

South Carolina has a humid subtropical climate with long hot summers and mild winters. The Upstate is Zone 7a-7b; the coast is Zone 8a-8b. Two growing seasons are standard.

See what grows well in South Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Watermelon in South Carolina?

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

What zone is South Carolina?

South Carolina spans USDA Zone 8a (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b).

When do you plant Watermelons in South Carolina?

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