Question 1

When should I plant watermelon in ZIP 53202?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 53202, the main watermelon target is around May 24, based on the representative Milwaukee frost station and USDA zone 6a.

Question 2

When should I start watermelon seeds indoors in 53202?

Accepted Answer

Start watermelon seeds indoors in ZIP 53202 around Apr 19, about 21 days before the May 10 last-frost estimate.

Question 3

When is the last frost in Milwaukee?

Accepted Answer

Milwaukee (ZIP 53202) has an average last spring frost around May 10, based on the representative Milwaukee frost station.

Question 4

When is the first frost in Milwaukee?

Accepted Answer

Milwaukee (ZIP 53202) has an average first fall frost around Oct 10, leaving about 153 frost-free days.

Question 5

Is this a guaranteed planting date?

Accepted Answer

No. GrowZone uses frost-date estimates, hardiness zones, and crop timing rules for planning. Local microclimates and current weather can shift the right date.

Step	Date	How to use it
Start Indoors	April 19, 2026	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	May 24, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.
Direct Sow	May 24, 2026	Sow seed outside when the crop and soil can handle the window.

Start watermelon seeds indoors around Apr 19

Watermelon dates for Milwaukee, WI