When to plant Melon in Hilliard, FL
In Hilliard, plant Melon in spring between February 14 and March 7, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Hilliard's last frost averages February 14, so aim for a steady week of warm soil before planting. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 70–100 days before the first frost on December 1.
When to Plant Melon in Hilliard, FL
Melons are warm-season vine crops that produce sweet, juicy fruits in many varieties including muskmelon and honeydew. They need a long, hot growing season.
Hilliard, Florida is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 14 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 290 days.
At an elevation of 408 feet, Nassau County receives approximately 57.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 101°F, so Melon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Melon will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Melon root diseases.
Hilliard Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5.2-5.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Melon
Melon needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Melon Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.9" | 1.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 6.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 7.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 8.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 7.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 5.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 2.2" | 2.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Nassau County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Melon Planting Timeline — Hilliard, FL
Melon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 17 | Jan 17 – Jan 31 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 21 | Feb 21 – Mar 7 |
| Direct Sow | February 14 | Feb 14 – Mar 7 |
| Harvest | May 2 | May 2 – Jun 20 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
70–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
290 days in Nassau County
Growing Tips for Hilliard
Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before transplanting. Plant on raised mounds of compost-enriched soil. Reduce watering as fruits ripen to concentrate sweetness.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Melon in Other Locations
When should I plant Melon in Hilliard, FL?
In Hilliard, FL, plant Melon after the last frost (around February 14) and before the first frost (around December 1). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Hilliard, FL for Melon?
Hilliard sits in USDA Zone 9a. Melon grows reliably in zones 4a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Melon grow in Hilliard's climate?
Yes — Melon grows well in Hilliard's temperate climate. Hilliard averages a 291-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 14 and first frost around December 1.
Your Nassau County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Nassau County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.