When to Plant Bitter Melon in Coahoma County, MS
Bitter melon is a tropical vine producing warty, bitter fruits used in Asian and Indian cuisine. The intense bitterness is prized for its culinary and health properties.
Coahoma County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 16 and the first fall frost is November 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 240 days.
At an elevation of 490 feet, Coahoma County receives approximately 54.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Bitter Melon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Bitter Melon, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Bitter Melon root diseases.
Coahoma County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Bitter Melon Planting Timeline — Coahoma County, MS
Bitter Melon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 26 | Jan 26 – Feb 9 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 30 | Mar 30 – Apr 13 |
| Direct Sow | March 23 | Mar 23 – Apr 13 |
| Harvest | June 1 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
240 days
Growing Tips for Coahoma County
Start seeds indoors 4 weeks before last frost. Provide a trellis for climbing. Harvest fruits while still green and firm. Reduce bitterness by salting sliced fruit before cooking.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Bitter Melon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Bitter Melon in Coahoma County, MS?
Coahoma County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 16. Plan your Bitter Melon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Coahoma County, MS?
Coahoma County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 16 and first fall frost is November 11.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Coahoma County gardeners in Zone 8a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.