Local growers grow more than 2,000 acres of Ontario watermelon in Southwestern Ontario
Many consumers may think of watermelon as an exotic fruit, but Ontario grows about 2,000 acres of watermelons each year, more than 35,084 tonnes of watermelon. Watermelon harvest now is underway.
Watermelon originated in northeastern Africa, particularly in the region that today includes Sudan and Egypt. It can be traced back more than 5,000 years. Modern genetic research suggests that the Kordofan melon of Sudan is one of the closest relatives—and possibly the direct ancestor—of today's cultivated watermelon.
Statistics Canada reports that Canadian farmers planted a record 840 hectares (about 2,076 acres) of watermelons in 2023, with Ontario accounting for 96.7% of national production.
Most commercial watermelon production is concentrated in Southwestern Ontario, particularly in Norfolk County and surrounding areas where sandy, well-drained soils and warm temperatures create ideal growing conditions.
Ontario's watermelon sector has expanded over the years as consumers increasingly seek locally grown produce during the summer season.
The 2026 watermelon crop has generally benefited from typical summer growing conditions across much of Southern Ontario. Watermelons require warm temperatures, plenty of sunlight, and consistent moisture to achieve good fruit size and sweetness.
While weather conditions can vary by region, seasonal rainfall and warm temperatures through much of the growing period have supported crop development. Growers continue to monitor fields for disease pressure and moisture levels, heavy rain or heat stress that can, of course, affect fruit quality.
Harvest activity is expected to increase through late July and continue into August, which is traditionally the peak marketing period for Ontario-grown watermelons.
The fruit is made up of more than 90 percent water, making it a popular choice during hot weather.
Fun fact - botanically, a watermelon is considered a berry—specifically a type of berry called a pepo, the same category that includes cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash.
As harvest ramps across Southwestern Ontario, growers are optimistic about meeting consumer demand for locally grown watermelons. The July-to-September season provides a valuable marketing window for farms and gives consumers access to fresh fruit grown close to home.
Photo Credit: pexels-nishantvy