When to plant Watermelon in Benton County, MO
The best window to plant Watermelon in Benton County, is April 16–May 7, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 9; first frost October 25.
When to Plant Watermelon in Benton County, MO
Watermelon is a sprawling vine crop that produces sweet, juicy fruits in hot weather. Varieties range from personal-sized icebox types to 50-pound giants.
Benton County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 25, giving you a growing season of approximately 199 days.
At an elevation of 1,323 feet, Benton County receives approximately 39.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Watermelon during the growing season.
Benton County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Watermelon to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 4 watermelon plants in about 8 sq ft. In Benton County's 199-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Watermelon Planting Timeline — Benton County, MO
Watermelon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 5 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 23 | Apr 23 – May 7 |
| Direct Sow | April 16 | Apr 16 – May 7 |
| Harvest | July 2 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| 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 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
199 days in Benton County
Growing Tips for Benton County
Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks early or direct sow after soil is warm. Plant on mounds with plenty of space. Check ripeness by looking for a yellow ground spot and dull thump when tapped.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Watermelon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Watermelon in Benton County, MO?
Benton County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Watermelon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Benton County, MO?
Benton County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 25.
When should I plant Watermelon in Benton County, MO?
In Benton County, MO, plant Watermelon after the last frost (around April 9) and before the first frost (around October 25). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Benton County, MO for Watermelon?
Benton County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Watermelon grows reliably in zones 4a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Watermelon grow in Benton County's climate?
Yes — Watermelon grows well in Benton County's temperate climate. Benton County averages a 199-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 25.
Your Benton County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Benton County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.