When to plant Winter Melon in Scott County, MS
Winter Melon planted in Scott County between March 29 and April 19 matures in 90–120 days — well before the November 6 first frost.
When to Plant Winter Melon in Scott County, MS
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.
Scott County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 229 days.
At an elevation of 344 feet, Scott County receives approximately 61.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Winter Melon during the growing season. 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.
Scott County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Winter Melon Planting Timeline — Scott County, MS
Winter Melon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 1 | Feb 1 – Feb 15 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 5 | Apr 5 – Apr 19 |
| Direct Sow | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 19 |
| Harvest | July 5 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| 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
229 days in Scott County
Growing Tips for Scott 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 Scott County, MS?
Scott County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 22. Plan your Winter Melon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Scott County, MS?
Scott County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 22 and first fall frost is November 6.
When should I plant Winter Melon in Scott County, MS?
In Scott County, MS, plant Winter Melon after the last frost (around March 22) and before the first frost (around November 6). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Scott County, MS for Winter Melon?
Scott 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 Scott County's climate?
Yes — Winter Melon grows well in Scott County's temperate climate. Scott County averages a 229-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 22 and first frost around November 6.
Your Scott County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Scott 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.