How Do I Grow Watermelons: Essential Tips and Tricks
How Do I Grow Watermelons?
To grow watermelons, you will need full sun, well-drained sandy soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.5.
Sow the seeds directly into a garden bed with rounded hills that are 2 feet in diameter and 5 feet apart, placing five or six seeds on each hill.
Once the seedlings are established, thin them to the three strongest on each hill.
In colder climates, start seeds indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost.
Watermelons need 8 to 10 hours of direct sun daily and require 1-2 inches of water per week.
Additionally, they grow best in long, hot summers above 80°F and should be fertilized after transplanting and twice more during the growing season.
Pruning is not necessary, but removing damaged or rotten fruit allows for healthier production.
The plants may be prone to pests, so monitor for aphids, mites, thrips, beetles, and cutworms.
Harvest seeds from existing plants as store-bought melons usually do not have matured seeds.
Lastly, check for ripeness by observing color changes and tendril drying near the stem of the fruit.
Key Points:
- Full sun and well-drained sandy soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.5 are needed for growing watermelons.
- Sow seeds directly into a garden bed with rounded hills that are 2 feet in diameter and 5 feet apart.
- Thin seedlings to the three strongest on each hill once they are established.
- Start seeds indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost in colder climates.
- Watermelons need 8 to 10 hours of direct sun daily and require 1-2 inches of water per week.
- Fertilize after transplanting and twice more during the growing season, and prune damaged or rotten fruit for healthier production.
- Monitor for pests such as aphids, mites, thrips, beetles, and cutworms.
- Harvest seeds from existing plants and check for ripeness through color changes and tendril drying.
Did You Know?
1. Watermelons were originally grown in Africa over 5,000 years ago, where they were used not only as a food source but also as a portable source of water.
2. The world record for the largest watermelon ever grown weighed an astonishing 350.5 pounds (158.8 kilograms) and was grown by Chris Kent of Tennessee, USA in 2013.
3. Besides the juicy flesh and seeds, watermelon rinds can also be eaten. In fact, they are often pickled or used in a variety of dishes in many countries, including the Southern United States.
4. Watermelons belong to the same family as cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash, known as the Cucurbitaceae family.
5. In 2019, an innovative technique was discovered that eliminates the need for bees for pollination by using machine-learning robots to pollinate watermelon plants. This method could help support crop yield in areas facing a decline in bee populations.
Different Types Of Watermelons: Early Season, Main Season, And Seedless.
Watermelon plants come in various types, each with its own maturation period and characteristics. The three main types of watermelons are early season, main season, and seedless.
Early season watermelons typically take about 70 to 75 days to mature. These varieties are perfect for regions with shorter growing seasons or for gardeners who want to enjoy watermelons earlier in the summer. They produce smaller-sized fruits that are still delicious and refreshing.
On the other hand, main season watermelons require a longer growing period of 80 to 90 days. These cultivars are known for their large and juicy fruits, perfect for summertime enjoyment. Main season watermelons are a favorite among home gardeners and farmers alike due to their impressive size and vibrant flavors.
Seedless watermelons have gained popularity in recent years due to their convenience and sweeter taste. These varieties are created through plant genetics and are not genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Seedless watermelons still produce small, undeveloped white seeds that are usually not noticeable when consuming the fruit. They are a great choice for those who prefer a seed-free eating experience.
Ideal Growing Conditions For Watermelons: Sun, Soil, And pH Levels.
Watermelons thrive in specific conditions, and providing the ideal environment is crucial for successful growth. Here are some key factors to consider:
Sunlight: Watermelons are sun-loving plants and require at least 8 to 10 hours of direct sunlight per day. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with minimal shade.
Soil: Watermelons prefer rich, well-drained sandy soil for optimum growth. Prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or tiller. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and drainage.
pH Levels: The pH level of the soil is an important factor for watermelon growth. Aim for a pH between 6.0 and 6.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral. Conduct a soil test to determine the pH level and make necessary adjustments using soil amendments if needed.
Planting And Caring For Watermelon Seeds: Sowing, Thinning, And Pollination.
Sowing Watermelon Seeds
- The preferred method for sowing watermelon seeds is directly into a garden bed when the soil temperature is above 65°F.
- Plant the seeds in rounded hills that are 2 feet in diameter and 5 feet apart.
- Place five or six seeds in each hill, with a spacing of about 2 inches between them.
Thinning Seedlings
- Once the seedlings have established themselves, thin them to the three strongest plants on each hill.
- This ensures that each watermelon plant has enough space, nutrients, and sunlight to grow and produce healthy fruits.
Importance of Pollination
- Pollination is a crucial step in watermelon production.
- Watermelon plants rely on bees to transfer pollen from the male flowers to the female flowers, leading to the development of fruits.
- Avoid using chemical sprays that may harm bees or other beneficial insects.
- Encourage bee activity in your garden by planting pollinator-friendly flowers nearby and providing a water source.
Tips For Growing Watermelons In Various Conditions: Colder Climates, Limited Space, And Container Gardening.
In colder climates, it is recommended to start watermelon seeds indoors 2 to 3 weeks before the last frost. This gives the plants a head start and ensures a longer growing season.
For limited garden space, consider growing watermelon vines vertically using a teepee or trellis. This technique helps save space while providing adequate support for the plants. Additionally, it is important to provide additional support, such as fabric slings, to prevent the fruits from touching the ground and becoming damaged.
Watermelon vines can also be grown in containers with excellent drainage using lightweight potting soil. It is advisable to choose compact varieties specifically bred for container gardening. Ensure that the containers are placed in a sunny location and pay close attention to the watering and fertilizing needs of the plants.
Harvesting And Choosing The Right Watermelon Varieties: Signs Of Ripeness And Recommended Varieties.
Knowing when to harvest watermelons is crucial to ensure the best flavor and sweetness. While it may be tempting to pick the largest fruit, size alone does not guarantee ripeness. Look for the following signs to determine if a watermelon is ready for harvest:
-
Color Change: The spot where the watermelon has been resting on the ground should change color from light green to yellow or creamy. This indicates that it has reached maturity.
-
Curly Tendrils: The curly tendrils near the stem of the fruit will start to dry out and turn brown when the watermelon is ripe.
-
Surface Color: Ripe watermelons may have a dull surface color, indicating maturity.
-
Skin Resistance: Gently press your fingernail against the watermelon’s skin. If it resists the poke, it is likely ripe. If it feels too soft or squishy, it is overripe.
When selecting watermelon varieties, consider the characteristics and growing conditions that suit your needs. Here are some recommended varieties:
-
‘Crimson Sweet’: This round watermelon weighs between 15 to 25 pounds and has light green skin with dark green stripes. It has dark red, firm flesh and is resistant to anthracnose and fusarium wilt.
-
‘Jubilee II Hybrid’: An oblong watermelon with green-striped skin, weighing 30 to 40 pounds. It has delicious red flesh and is resistant to anthracnose and fusarium wilt. This variety is recommended for the Southeast region.
-
‘Moon and Stars’: A unique variety with yellow splotches on its dark green rind. It weighs between 25 to 40 pounds and has flavorful red flesh.
-
‘Sugar Baby’: This round watermelon has a deep green rind and red flesh. It weighs 8 to 10 pounds and has a thick rind. This variety is known for its compact plants.
-
‘Sweet Beauty Hybrid’: Weighing between 5 to 7 pounds, this watermelon has sweet red flesh and superior flavor. Its vines are semi-upright, reaching up to 3 feet tall.
-
‘Tiger Baby’: This round and striped watermelon weighs 7 to 10 pounds and has dense and sweet pinkish-red flesh. It also has good resistance to fusarium wilt.
-
‘Yellow Doll Hybrid’: Known for its unique yellow flesh, this watermelon weighs between 3 to 6 pounds. It produces green-striped fruits on a compact vine.
Growing your own watermelons allows for better flavor and freshness compared to store-bought ones. By following the essential tips and tricks provided, you can successfully grow watermelons in your own garden, whether you have limited space, colder climates, or the desire to try different varieties. Enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor and savor the satisfaction of growing your own watermelons.
Check this out:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to grow watermelon?
To achieve optimal watermelon growth, ensure that the garden bed has a soil temperature of at least 65°F before sowing the seeds directly. Create slightly rounded hills with a diameter of 2 feet and keep them 5 feet apart. Plant five or six watermelon seeds at a depth of 1 inch on top of each hill. This method allows for proper spacing and provides the seeds with the ideal conditions to flourish.
How long do watermelons take to grow?
The growth period of watermelons can range from around 80 to 100 days, considering the different varieties. Determining the ideal time for harvest can be challenging, but there are indicators to look out for. Pay attention to the melon’s bottom, as a creamy or bright yellow spot indicates ripeness, while a white or pale green spot suggests that the melon is not yet mature.
How do watermelon seeds grow?
Watermelon seeds start to grow when they are planted in warm soil that reaches a minimum temperature of 65 degrees F, ideally at a depth of four inches. These seeds have a faster germination process if the soil’s temperature is between 70-95 degrees F. Watermelon plants come in various varieties, ranging from small, round “personal” types to the larger heirlooms such as “Black Diamond.”
What is the best month to plant watermelon?
The best month to plant watermelon would be early March or early August. Watermelons require about 100 days of warm weather to fully grow and become edible. By planting in early March or early August, you can take advantage of the warmer temperatures and give the watermelons sufficient time to develop before the colder months.