Question 1

When should I plant watermelon in ZIP 70112?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 70112, the main watermelon target is around Feb 24, based on the representative New Orleans frost station and USDA zone 9b.

Question 2

When should I start watermelon seeds indoors in 70112?

Accepted Answer

Start watermelon seeds indoors in ZIP 70112 around Jan 20, about 21 days before the Feb 10 last-frost estimate.

Question 3

When is the last frost in New Orleans?

Accepted Answer

New Orleans (ZIP 70112) has an average last spring frost around Feb 10, based on the representative New Orleans frost station.

Question 4

When is the first frost in New Orleans?

Accepted Answer

New Orleans (ZIP 70112) has an average first fall frost around Dec 10, leaving about 303 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	January 20, 2026	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	February 24, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.
Direct Sow	February 24, 2026	Sow seed outside when the crop and soil can handle the window.

Start watermelon seeds indoors around Jan 20

Watermelon dates for New Orleans, LA