Here’s How You Can Curate A Slice Of Summer In Your Very Own Backyard By Growing Watermelon
Nothing screams “summer” more than slicing into a fresh, juicy watermelon and chilling poolside with a nice afternoon snack. But, in addition to enjoying watermelon, growing this fruit can be quite a rewarding gardening endeavor, too.
So, whether you’re planning to dedicate a corner of your garden to this summer staple or are just simply intrigued by the idea of harvesting your own, here’s everything you need to know about growing your very own watermelons.
Watermelon Varieties & How To Choose
First things first, watermelons come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors. Some of the most common types include the large, oblong Charleston Gray, the smaller and round Sugar Baby, and the seedless varieties that make picnics a breeze.
But choosing the right type will depend on your climate and the space you have. Larger varieties need more room to roam, while compact types are suitable for smaller gardens or containers.
So, always check your plant’s compatibility with your local growing conditions to get off to a good start.
Care Requirements: Sun, Soil, And Water
Watermelons absolutely love the sun and will need six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. They also thrive in well-drained, sandy loam soil rich in organic matter.
That’s why, before planting, you should enrich your soil with compost or aged manure to give your watermelons a strong start.
Andrii Zastrozhnov – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only
Regular watering is crucial as well, especially during the fruit setting and growing stages. Just be sure to avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root diseases and poor fruit quality.
Growing Watermelons From Seed
Starting a watermelon from a seed might sound daunting, but it’s actually quite straightforward. You should start by sowing seeds indoors about a month before the last expected frost.
Also, it’s best to use biodegradable pots to avoid disturbing your watermelon’s roots during transplantation.
You can plant two seeds per pot, and once they germinate, thin out the weaker seedling. At the same time, keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Lastly, after the danger of frost has passed and the seedlings have at least two true leaves, you can transplant them to your prepared garden spot.
Growing Watermelons From Transplants
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a head start, purchasing watermelon transplants from a nursery might be your best bet. Just be sure to choose healthy, disease-free plants.
You can transplant them in the late afternoon or on a cloudy day to reduce transplant shock.
Also, space them according to the variety’s needs – which is usually about two to three feet apart in rows five to six feet apart.
Finally, mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the fruit clean.
The Watermelon Waiting Game
Patience is definitely key when it comes to growing watermelons because, from planting to harvest, it can take anywhere from 70 to 90 days for most varieties.
This timeline can vary based on the type of watermelon and your local growing conditions, though. So, just keep an eye on growth and make sure your plants are well cared for during these months.
How To Know When Watermelons Are Ready
Deciding when to harvest your watermelon can sometimes feel like a guessing game, but there are a few simple signs to watch out for.
First, the classic thump test – where a ripe watermelon sounds hollow when tapped – is one method. Also, look at the tendril closest to the fruit. If it’s dried and brown, the fruit is likely ready.
Lastly, the bottom of the watermelon should turn from white to creamy yellow as it matures.
Tackling Common Problems
Growing watermelons also isn’t without its challenges. So, watch out for pests such as aphids and cucumber beetles that can damage plants. Diseases like powdery mildew and fusarium wilt are common, too.
Prevention is always your best defense, so try to choose resistant varieties and maintain good air circulation around your plants. And if problems arise, treat your plants with appropriate organic pesticides and always follow the label instructions.
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