When to plant Winter Melon in Moore Haven, FL
The best window to plant Winter Melon in Moore Haven, is February 1–February 22, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits February 1; first frost December 19.
When to Plant Winter Melon in Moore Haven, FL
Winter melon (wax gourd) is a large Asian squash with a waxy white coating that allows long storage. The mild flesh is used in soups and stir-fries.
Moore Haven, Florida is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is February 1 and the first fall frost is December 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 321 days.
At an elevation of 434 feet, Glades County receives approximately 54.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 101°F, so Winter Melon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Winter Melon will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Winter Melon root diseases.
Moore Haven Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Winter Melon Planting Timeline — Moore Haven, FL
Winter Melon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | December 21 | Dec 21 – Jan 4 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 8 | Feb 8 – Feb 22 |
| Direct Sow | February 1 | Feb 1 – Feb 22 |
| Harvest | May 10 | May 10 – Jun 28 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | Start Indoors |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
90–120 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 10a
📆 Growing Season
321 days in Glades County
Growing Tips for Moore Haven
Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks early. Provide ample space for sprawling vines. Harvest when the waxy coating develops on the rind. Fruits can weigh 15-30 pounds.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Winter Melon in Other Locations
When should I plant Winter Melon in Moore Haven, FL?
In Moore Haven, FL, plant Winter Melon after the last frost (around February 1) and before the first frost (around December 19). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Moore Haven, FL for Winter Melon?
Moore Haven sits in USDA Zone 10a. Winter Melon grows reliably in zones 5a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Winter Melon grow in Moore Haven's climate?
Yes — Winter Melon grows well in Moore Haven's temperate climate. Moore Haven averages a 322-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 1 and first frost around December 19.
Your Glades County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Glades County (Zone 10a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.