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Can You Grow Watermelon in Washington?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4b–11b

Washington last frost

late January

Washington first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

70–90 days

When to plant Watermelons in Washington

Start indoors

Jan 2

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

Apr 10 – Apr 30

Dates are approximate, based on Washington'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 Washington

Washington has dramatically different climates. The wet maritime west (Zone 8a-8b) is mild and productive year-round. Eastern Washington is semi-arid and colder (Zone 5-6) with hot dry summers.

See what grows well in Washington →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Watermelon in Washington?

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

What zone is Washington?

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

When do you plant Watermelons in Washington?

Plant Watermelons around late January (start indoors Jan 2), harvest Apr 10 – Apr 30.