How to Grow Watermelon

Introduction

Types of Watermelon

Watermelon varieties offer something for every taste and garden space. Here are some popular types:

1. Seeded Watermelon: Traditional large watermelons like ‘Crimson Sweet’ and ‘Charleston Gray’ are known for their juicy flesh and rich flavor. These varieties are ideal for those who don’t mind removing seeds.
2. Seedless Watermelon: These hybrid varieties, such as ‘Summer Breeze,’ are smaller, sweeter, and convenient for snacking. While they produce no viable seeds, they require a pollinator variety to grow.
3. Icebox Watermelon: Compact varieties like ‘Sugar Baby’ and ‘Petite Sweet’ are perfect for small gardens or container growing. These smaller melons are easy to manage and quick to ripen.
4. Yellow and Orange Watermelon: Unique varieties like ‘Yellow Doll’ and ‘Orangeglo’ feature vibrant flesh colors and a sweeter, honey-like flavor, adding a twist to traditional watermelon.
5. Miniature and Novelty Watermelon: Varieties like ‘Tigrinho’ or ‘Moon and Stars’ provide visual appeal with their unusual patterns or small size, making them great for specialty dishes or decorative purposes.

Health Benefits

Watermelon is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

• Hydration: Composed of 92% water, it’s excellent for staying hydrated.
• Rich in Nutrients: High in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as potassium.
• Antioxidants: Contains lycopene, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation.

Planting Watermelon

Best Seasons for Planting

• Watermelon is a warm-season crop. Plant seeds outdoors 2-3 weeks after the last frost when soil temperatures reach 70°F.
• In cooler regions, start seeds indoors 4 weeks before the last frost and transplant them once the weather warms up.

Soil Preparation and Amendments

• Soil Type: Watermelon thrives in sandy, well-draining soil.
• pH Level: Maintain slightly acidic to neutral soil (6.0-7.0).
• Amendments: Incorporate compost or aged manure to enrich the soil with nutrients.

Seed Spacing and Depth

• Spacing: Plant seeds or transplants 2-3 feet apart in rows spaced 6-8 feet apart. For small varieties, reduce spacing.
• Depth: Sow seeds 1 inch deep in hills or rows. Thin seedlings to the strongest plant per hill once they sprout.

Caring for Watermelon Plants

Watering Schedule

• Water deeply once a week, providing 1-2 inches of water. Increase watering frequency during flowering and fruiting stages.
• Avoid wetting the leaves to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilization

• At Planting: Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or compost.
• During Growth: Switch to a phosphorus- and potassium-rich fertilizer during flowering and fruiting to support healthy fruit development.

Managing Sprawling Vines

• Prune side vines to focus the plant’s energy on the main vine and developing fruit.
• Use mulch to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and prevent fruit from resting directly on the soil.

Pest and Disease Management

Common Pests

1. Cucumber Beetles: Feed on leaves and flowers, reducing fruit production.
2. Aphids: Cluster on leaves and stems, sucking sap and weakening plants.
3. Squash Bugs: Cause wilting by feeding on stems and leaves.

Companion Planting

• Good Companions: Plant watermelon near corn, beans, or marigolds to attract pollinators and deter pests.
• Avoid Planting Near: Cucumbers or pumpkins, which compete for nutrients and attract similar pests.

Organic Pest Control Methods

• Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage aphids and cucumber beetles.
• Hand-pick squash bugs and remove eggs from leaves.
• Employ floating row covers to protect young plants from pests.

How to Grow Watermelon in Containers

Watermelon can thrive in containers with the right conditions:

• Choose the Right Container: Use a pot at least 20-25 gallons in size with good drainage.
• Soil: Fill with a high-quality potting mix enriched with compost or slow-release fertilizer.
• Planting: Sow 2-3 seeds per container, thinning to the strongest seedling after sprouting.
• Watering: Container soil dries out faster, so water frequently to maintain consistent moisture.
• Support: Use a trellis or cage to support vines and keep fruit off the ground.

Tip: Choose compact or bush varieties like ‘Sugar Baby’ for the best results in containers.

How to Grow Watermelon Vertically

Vertical gardening is a space-saving technique that works well for small gardens:

1. Choose the Right Varieties: Select smaller or lighter-fruited varieties, such as ‘Golden Midget’ or ‘Sugar Baby.’
2. Install a Sturdy Trellis: Use a strong A-frame, fence, or cattle panel to support vines and fruit.
3. Train the Vines: Gently guide vines up the trellis and secure them with soft ties.
4. Provide Fruit Support: Use slings made from fabric or netting to cradle heavy fruit and prevent breakage.

Benefits: Vertical growing improves air circulation, reduces pest exposure, and makes harvesting easier.

Watermelon Plant Leaves

The condition of watermelon leaves provides important clues about plant health:

• Healthy Leaves: Should be dark green, broad, and free of damage.
• Signs of Stress: Yellowing leaves may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest issues.
• Common Problems:

Care Tip: Regularly inspect leaves and treat any issues promptly to maintain healthy growth.

Harvesting Watermelon

Determining Ripeness

• Sound Test: Tap the fruit; a ripe watermelon will produce a deep, hollow sound.
• Field Spot: Check the underside of the fruit for a creamy yellow spot, indicating ripeness.
• Tendrils: Look for the tendrils near the fruit stem to dry and turn brown.

Proper Cutting Techniques

• Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the vine, leaving a few inches of stem attached to extend freshness.

Storing Watermelon

• Short-Term Storage: Keep whole watermelons at room temperature for up to two weeks.
• Cut Watermelon: Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-5 days.

FAQs

How Long Does Watermelon Take to Grow?

• Watermelon takes 70-90 days to mature from planting, depending on the variety.

Why Is My Watermelon Not Sweet?

• Insufficient sunlight or irregular watering can reduce sweetness. Ensure plants receive full sun and consistent moisture.

How to Grow Watermelon in Containers?

• Use a large container, choose compact varieties, and provide a trellis for support.

Can You Grow Watermelon from Scraps?

• Save seeds from a mature watermelon, dry them thoroughly, and plant in nutrient-rich soil. Hybrid seeds may not produce true-to-type fruit.

Growing watermelon is a fun and rewarding experience that can yield delicious, juicy fruits all summer long. Whether you plant them in a garden bed, container, or train them to grow vertically, this guide has all the tips you need for success. Happy gardening!