When to plant Winter Melon in Lowndes County, AL
Lowndes County's climate puts the Winter Melon spring window between March 22 and April 12. most warm-season crops establish quickly once soil holds above 60°F.
When to Plant Winter Melon in Lowndes County, AL
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.
Lowndes County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 15 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 243 days.
At an elevation of 392 feet, Lowndes County receives approximately 57.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Winter Melon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Winter Melon, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Winter Melon root diseases.
Lowndes County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Winter Melon Planting Timeline — Lowndes County, AL
Winter Melon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 25 | Jan 25 – Feb 8 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
| Direct Sow | March 22 | Mar 22 – Apr 12 |
| Harvest | June 28 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 |
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 | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
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 8b
📆 Growing Season
243 days in Lowndes County
Growing Tips for Lowndes County
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
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Winter Melon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Winter Melon in Lowndes County, AL?
Lowndes County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 15. Plan your Winter Melon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lowndes County, AL?
Lowndes County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 15 and first fall frost is November 13.
When should I plant Winter Melon in Lowndes County, AL?
In Lowndes County, AL, plant Winter Melon after the last frost (around March 15) and before the first frost (around November 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lowndes County, AL for Winter Melon?
Lowndes County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Winter Melon grows reliably in zones 5a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Winter Melon grow in Lowndes County's climate?
Yes — Winter Melon grows well in Lowndes County's temperate climate. Lowndes County averages a 243-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 15 and first frost around November 13.
Your Lowndes County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lowndes County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.