Essential Information
Citrullus vulgaris , with their sugared , juicy fleshand thirst - quenching property , are a darling summer treat . Whether you ’re a seasoned gardener or a newbie , growing your own watermelons is a rewarding experience that yield pleasant-tasting , homegrown produce . In this comprehensive guide , we ’ll delve into the step - by - step process ofplanting watermelons , insure you enjoy a bounteous crop of these refreshing fruits .
Selecting the Right Variety
The first step inplanting watermelonsis select the good variety . There are numerous watermelon vine variety available , each with itsunique characteristics . Consider constituent such as maturity fourth dimension , size , anddisease resistancewhen get your selection . Some popular watermelon varieties admit :
Preparing the Soil
Citrullus vulgaris thrive in well - drain , flaxen loam soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 . Before planting , amend the land withorganic affair , such as compost or manure , toimprove fertilityand drainage . verify the stain is loose and destitute of grass .
Starting from Seed
watermelon vine can be started from seeds indoors or outdoors . If starting indoors , sow seed in peat pots orseed trays filledwith seed - start mix . Keep thesoil moistand bring home the bacon plenty of luminosity . When seedling have developed their first curing of true leaf , transfer them into individual pots .
Transplanting Outdoors
When the weather is warm and the soil temperature has reached at least 70 ° F ( 21 ° C ) , it ’s time to transfer thewatermelon seedling alfresco . Choose asunny locationwith at least 6 hours ofdirect sunlightper twenty-four hours . Dig holes that are twice the sizing of the root ball and space them 3 - 4 feet apart .
Watering
watermelon needregular lachrymation , especially during hot and wry weather . weewee deep and infrequently , allowing the grunge to dry out somewhat between watering . Avoid overwatering , as it can conduct to ancestor rot .
Fertilizing
Fertilize watermelons every 2 - 3 weeks with abalanced fertilizer . Avoid using too much N , as it canpromote undue vine growthat the expense of yield yield .
Pollination
watermelon are self - pollinating , but crabbed - pollination can take place if bees or other insects are present . Toensure salutary pollenation , plant life several watermelon vine plants in close law of proximity .
Mulching
Mulching aroundwatermelon plants help keep on soil moisture , suppress weed , andregulate soil temperature . utilize constituent fabric such as wheat , hay , orshredded leavesas mulch .
Pest and Disease Management
Watermelons are susceptible to various pests and diseases . uncouth plague include aphids , cucumber vine beetles , and squash bugs . Common disease include powdery mould , anthracnose , andfusarium wilt . rehearse expert garden hygiene by removing septic plants androtating cropsto prevent the spread head of pestilence and disease .
Harvesting
watermelon are ready to harvest when they have reached theirfull sizeand the rind hasturned dulland firmly . To condition for ripeness , softly tapthe watermelon . A ripe watermelon will sound hollow when tapped . turn off the watermelon from the vine using a sharp knife .
Wrapping Up: Enjoy the Sweet Rewards
Growing watermelons is a satisfying andrewarding experiencethat allows you to savor thesweet fruitsof your undertaking . By follow the footfall outlined in this pathfinder , you may successfully implant and reap your own delicious watermelons . So , get ready to embrace the joy of garden and cultivate the refreshing taste of summer in your backyard .
Information You Need to Know
1 . How long does it take to produce a watermelon from seed?Answer : The time it postulate to grow a watermelon from seed toharvest vary dependingon the variety andgrowing condition . Typically , it takes 80 - 100 days.2 . Can Igrow watermelonsin containers?Answer : Yes , it is possible togrow watermelonsin container , but they will likely be smaller in size . prefer a container that is at least 18 inch in diameter and has drain holes.3 . Why are my watermelon leaves work yellow?Answer : Yellowing watermelon leaves can be a sign of alimentary deficiency , overwatering , or disease . Check thesoil pHand fertilize if necessary . Adjust watering frequence andinspect plantsfor signs of disease .
