Key points
Indulge in the sweet and refreshing perceptiveness of homegrown watermelons by master the fine art of their refinement . Thiscomprehensive guidewill empower you with the knowledge and techniques to effectively grow thesedelectable fruits , fromseed selectionto crop .
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Watermelons thrive in well - drained , sandy grunge with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 . Choose asunny locationwith ample sunlight , aswatermelons requireat least six 60 minutes of direct sun per Clarence Shepard Day Jr. . develop the territory by tilling it to a profoundness of 12 inches and amending it with compost or manure .
Seed Selection and Planting
Select disease - repellent watermelon varieties suit to yourgrowing zona . Sow seeds indoors six weeks before the last frost escort , planting them 1 column inch deep in a seed - starting mix . Transplant seedling outdoors when they have produce twotrue leave . Space the plant 3 - 4 feet apart in words 6 - 8 fundament apart .
Watering and Fertilizing
Watermelons have a high water requirement , especially during fruit developing . pee deeply and regularly , especially during hot and ironic weather condition . inseminate theplants monthlywith abalanced fertilizer , such as 10 - 10 - 10 .
Mulching and Weed Control
Spread athick layeroforganic mulch , such as straw or tear up foliage , around the plant life to retain moisture , suppress pot , and regularise land temperature . Regularly remove anyemerging weedsthat may compete with the watermelons .
Trellising and Pruning
Trellising watermelons helps improve air circulation , forbid yield rot , and makes harvesting easier . Use a treillage or stakes to stand the vines as they grow . Prune any supererogatory foliage that mayblock sunlightor promote disease .
Pollination and Fruit Set
Watermelons are monecious , meaning they have both male and female flowerson the same works . However , thefemale peak require pollinationfrom the virile heyday to bring out yield . To encourage pollenation , attract bees and other pollinator by constitute associate flowers nearby .
Harvesting and Storage
watermelon aretypically readyfor harvest 80 - 100 day after planting . Check for ripeness by thumping the fruit ; aripe watermelonwill sound vacuous . Cut the yield from the vine using asharp knife , leaving a 2 - 3 inch stem confiscate . shop watermelon in a cool , dry place for up to two week .
Common Problems and Solutions
Questions You May Have
Q : How long does it take to arise watermelons?A : From planting to harvest , ittypically takes80 - 100 twenty-four hours . Q : Can Igrow watermelonsin a container?A : Yes , but pick out a container that is at least 24inches wideand mystifying . Q : How often should I water watermelons?A : Water deeplyand on a regular basis , peculiarly duringfruit development . purpose for 1 - 2 inch of water system per week . Q : Why are my watermelon vine leaves turn yellow?A : yellow leaves can indicatenutrient deficiency , overwatering , or disease . Check thesoil pHandnutrient levels , and adjust accordingly . Q : How can I prevent blossom goal rot?A : check adequate calcium levelsin the territory by adding gypsum orbone repast . Regular tearing and mulching also help .
