How to Grow Watermelon

Ready to grow Watermelon?

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🛠️ Supplies You'll Need

🌱 Seed Starting Trays 🪴 Seed Starting Mix 💡 Grow Lights 🌡️ Heat Mat 🪵 Raised Garden Bed 🌍 Vegetable Garden Soil 🛠️ Hand Trowel Set 🚿 Watering Can

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Find Your Watermelon Planting Dates

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🌿 Plant Overview

Scientific Name Citrullus lanatus

Category vegetable

Type Vine

Days to Maturity 80 days

Starting Method Start Indoors

☀️ Growing Requirements

☀️

Sun

Full Sun (8+ hours)

💧

Water

Regular (1-2 inches/week)

↔️

Spacing

72" apart

🌱

Depth

1" deep

📏

Height

12-24"

🌱

Germination

4-12 days

Ready to Grow Watermelon?

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🤝 Good Companions

CornSunflowerMarigold

⚠️ Avoid Planting Near

Potato

Watermelon Planting Calendar by Zone

Watermelon Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Watermelon? +

Start Watermelon seeds indoors 4 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

How long does Watermelon take to grow? +

Watermelon typically matures in about 80 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Watermelon indoors or direct sow? +

Watermelon should be started indoors 4 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

How much sun does Watermelon need? +

Watermelon requires full sun (8+ hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Watermelon? +

Space Watermelon plants 72 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Watermelon need? +

Watermelon has regular (1-2 inches/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

About Watermelon

Sweet summer fruit that needs warm soil and long growing season. Reduce watering as fruits ripen.

Expect your Watermelon to be ready for harvest in approximately 80 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.