When to Plant Winter Melon in Honolulu County, HI
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.
Honolulu County, Hawaii is in USDA Zone 11b. The average last spring frost is January 1 and the first fall frost is December 31, giving you a growing season of approximately 364 days.
At an elevation of 235 feet, Honolulu County receives approximately 44.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silty clay soil. Summer highs average 88°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.
Honolulu County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silty Clay
Soil pH
5.7-6.4
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
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Winter Melon Planting Timeline — Honolulu County, HI
Winter Melon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | November 20 | Nov 20 – Dec 4 |
| Transplant Outdoors | January 8 | Jan 8 – Jan 22 |
| Direct Sow | January 1 | Jan 1 – Jan 22 |
| Harvest | April 9 | Apr 9 – May 28 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | Start Indoors |
| December | Start Indoors |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
90–120 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 11b
Growing Season
364 days
Growing Tips for Honolulu 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
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Winter Melon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Winter Melon in Honolulu County, HI?
Honolulu County is in Zone 11b with an average last frost of January 1. Plan your Winter Melon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Honolulu County, HI?
Honolulu County, Hawaii is in USDA Hardiness Zone 11b. The average last spring frost is January 1 and first fall frost is December 31.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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