When to plant Winter Melon in Washington County, MO
Plant Winter Melon in Washington County, when soil hits 50°F — usually April 17. Continue planting through May 8 for the spring crop.
When to Plant Winter Melon in Washington County, MO
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.
Washington County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 10 and the first fall frost is October 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 197 days.
At an elevation of 738 feet, Washington County receives approximately 36.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Winter Melon during the growing season.
Washington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Winter Melon Planting Timeline — Washington County, MO
Winter Melon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 13 | Feb 13 – Feb 27 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 8 |
| Direct Sow | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 8 |
| Harvest | July 24 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| 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 6b
📆 Growing Season
197 days in Washington County
Growing Tips for Washington 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 Washington County, MO?
Washington County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 10. Plan your Winter Melon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Washington County, MO?
Washington County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 10 and first fall frost is October 24.
When should I plant Winter Melon in Washington County, MO?
In Washington County, MO, plant Winter Melon after the last frost (around April 10) and before the first frost (around October 24). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Washington County, MO for Winter Melon?
Washington County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Winter Melon grows reliably in zones 5a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Winter Melon grow in Washington County's climate?
Yes — Winter Melon grows well in Washington County's temperate climate. Washington County averages a 197-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 10 and first frost around October 24.
Your Washington County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Washington 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.