Your Cool Home is supported by its readers. Please assume all links are affiliate links. If you purchase something from one of our links, we make a small commission from Amazon. Thank you!
Yes, you can grow watermelon in Texas, and the Lone Star State is actually one of the best places in the country to do it.
With its long, hot summers and plenty of sunshine, Texas gives watermelons the warm conditions they crave to grow big and sweet.
Whether you’re in the rolling hills of Central Texas or the drier plains out west, growing watermelon in Texas is totally doable with the right approach.
If you’ve been wondering whether you can grow watermelon in Texas, the short answer is a resounding yes.
In this post, we’ll dig into why Texas is great for watermelons, the best varieties to plant, how to time your planting, and a few tips to keep your vines thriving.
Let’s get growing.
Why You Can Grow Watermelon in Texas
You can grow watermelon in Texas because the climate practically rolls out the red carpet for these thirsty, sun-loving vines.
Here’s why Texas is such a sweet spot for watermelons.
1. Texas Heat Is Perfect for Watermelons
Watermelons love the heat, and Texas has no shortage of that.
These plants thrive when temperatures sit between 70°F and 90°F, which describes a big chunk of the Texas growing season.
The warmer it gets, the faster your watermelons grow, as long as you keep them watered.
2. Plenty of Sunshine
Watermelons need full sun, and Texas delivers that in spades.
Most varieties want at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day.
If you can grow watermelon in Texas, it’s largely because the sun shines so reliably here from spring through fall.
3. A Long Growing Season
Texas offers a long growing season that gives watermelons time to mature fully.
Depending on your region, you can plant as early as March in South Texas or as late as May in the northern parts of the state.
That extended window is a big reason you can grow watermelon in Texas without much fuss.
Best Watermelon Varieties to Grow in Texas
If you want to grow watermelon in Texas successfully, picking the right variety matters.
Some watermelons handle Texas heat better than others, so here are a few reliable choices.
1. Black Diamond
Black Diamond is a classic Texas favorite with a thick rind and deep red flesh.
It loves the heat and grows well across most of the state.
2. Crimson Sweet
Crimson Sweet is sweet, reliable, and resistant to several common diseases.
It’s a great pick if you’re just learning how to grow watermelon in Texas.
3. Jubilee
Jubilee produces large, oblong melons with bright red flesh.
It’s another variety that thrives in the Texas sun and produces a generous harvest.
4. Sugar Baby
If space is tight, Sugar Baby is a compact variety that still delivers.
It matures faster than larger types, which helps in shorter growing regions.
How to Grow Watermelon in Texas
Knowing you can grow watermelon in Texas is one thing, but getting a great harvest takes a bit of care.
Here’s how to set your plants up for success.
1. Plant After the Last Frost
Watermelons are sensitive to cold, so wait until the soil warms to at least 70°F.
In most of Texas, that means planting between late March and May.
2. Give Them Room to Spread
Watermelon vines sprawl, so space plants about three to six feet apart.
If you’re short on space, choose a bush variety or grow them vertically with support.
3. Water Deeply and Consistently
Watermelons need steady moisture, especially while fruits are developing.
Aim for about one to two inches of water per week, and water at the base to keep leaves dry.
4. Feed the Soil
Watermelons are heavy feeders, so work compost or a balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting.
A mid-season boost can help too if your vines look hungry.
5. Watch for Pests and Disease
Aphids, squash bugs, and powdery mildew can all show up in a Texas garden.
Keep an eye on your vines and act quickly if you spot trouble.
So, Can You Grow Watermelon in Texas?
Yes, you can grow watermelon in Texas, and the state’s heat, sunshine, and long growing season make it one of the best places to do it.
Just pick a heat-loving variety, plant after the last frost, water consistently, and give those vines plenty of room to run.
With a little patience and care, you can grow watermelon in Texas and enjoy sweet, homegrown fruit all summer long.