Key points
turn watermelons is a rewarding experience that give in gratifying , juicy fruitsthat are perfect for summer gatherings andrefreshing treats . To school large , flavorful Citrullus vulgaris , it ’s crucial to empathise the key factors that contribute to their growth and maturation . This comprehensive guide will provide you with expert tips and techniques to ensure you harvest heavy , juicy watermelons every time of year .
Choosing the Right Variety
Selecting the appropriatewatermelon varietyis crucial for reach thedesired sizeand flavor . select varieties known for theirlarge fruit size , such as :
Preparing the Soil
Watermelons thrive in well - drained , sandy loam soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 . develop the soil by till it to a depth of 12 inches and mixing in plenty of organic issue , such as compost or manure . enhance beds can alsoimprove drainageand territory temperature .
Planting the Seeds
Start seeds indoors 4 - 6 weeks before the lastfrost appointment . Plant seed 1 inch deep and 2 inches aside in individual peat crapper filled with seminal fluid starting mixture . Provide tidy sum of light and keep the soil moist .
Transplanting Seedlings
When seedling have develop 2 - 3true parting , they are ready to betransplanted outdoors . indurate them off by step by step exposing them tooutdoor conditionsfor a week before transplant . Space plant 6 - 8 feet apart in dustup 8 - 10 feet apart .
Watering
watermelon vine require regular lacrimation , specially during red-hot , juiceless weather . Water deeply and infrequently , allowing the soil to dry out out more or less between waterings . Avoid overwatering , as this can lead to root rot .
Fertilizing
Fertilize watermelon every 3 - 4 week with abalanced fertilizer , such as 10 - 10 - 10 . Avoid using too much N , as this canpromote excessive vine growthat the expense of fruit output .
Pollination
Watermelons are monoicous , meaning they produce both male and female flowerson the same plant life . Male flowers appear first and unresolved in the morning . Female prime appear later and have a small , round fruit at the alkali . Toensure pollenation , plant multiple Citrullus vulgaris plantsand encourage the presence of pollinator , such as bee .
Pest and Disease Control
Common pest that can feign watermelons let in aphids , cucumber beetles , and squash microbe . keep in line these blighter using organic methods , such asinsecticidal soaporneem oil . Diseases that can feign watermelons include wilt disease and anthracnose . Use disease - resistant variety and practice crop rotation to preclude disease problems .
Mulching
mulch around watermelon plants helps toretain wet , suppress weeds , and regulate stain temperature . Useorganic materialssuch as straw , hay , orshredded leavesas mulch .
Trellising
trellis watermelon vine can help to improve air circulation andprevent fruit guff . Use atrellis systemto support the vine and keep them off the earth .
Harvesting
Watermelons are ready to harvest when therind turns dulland thebottom billet turns jaundiced . Use asharp knifeto thin the fruit from the vine , pass on a shortsighted stem attached .
The Final Harvest
grow gravid , juicy watermelonsis arewarding experiencethat requires thrifty preparation and care to detail . By follow these expert gratuity and proficiency , you may ensure a bighearted harvest of dulcet , refreshing watermelons that will be the highlight of your summertime gathering .
Information You Need to Know
Q : What is the good soil for growing watermelons?A : Well - drained , sandy loam soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 is ideal for growing watermelons . Q : How often should I irrigate watermelon plants?A : Watermelons require even watering , especially during blistering , dry weather . water system deeply and infrequently , permit the soil to dry out out more or less between tearing . Q : How can Iprevent pestsand disease from affecting my watermelon plants?A : Use disease - resistant varieties , drill harvest rotation , andcontrol pestsusingorganic method , such as insecticidal soap or neem oil . Q : When arewatermelons readyto harvest?A : Citrullus vulgaris are ready to harvest when therind turns dulland the bottom spot turns chicken . Q : How can Istore watermelonsto keep them fresh?A : Store watermelonsin a cool , dry placeout ofdirect sunlight . They can be stash away for up to two weeks .
