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sinister Citrullus vulgaris , with its toothsome , sweet fleshand refreshing taste , is asummer staplethat can be grown in many regions . Whether you ’re a veteran nurseryman or a novice enthusiast , this comprehensive guide will provide you with all theessential stepsto cultivate bountiful dim watermelons in your own backyard .
Choosing the Right Variety
The first step is to select the appropriateblack watermelon varietyfor your climate andgrowing conditions . Some popular selection include :
Soil Preparation and Planting
dim watermelon expand in well - drained , loamy stain with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 . Prepare the soil by till to a profoundness of 12 - 18 inches andincorporating plentyoforganic matter , such as compost or manure . Plant the seeds 1inch deepand 2 - 3 feet aside in hills or row . Each J. J. Hill should have 2 - 3 source , and the rows should be spaced 6 - 8 understructure apart .
Watering and Fertilizing
Water thewatermelon plant regularly , especially during raging , dry weather . propose to keep the stain systematically moist but not waterlogged . fecundate the plants every few weeks with abalanced plant food , such as 10 - 10 - 10 .
Pollination
Watermelons are monoicous plants , mean they have both male and distaff flowerson the same industrial plant . However , thefemale peak ask pollinationfrom the virile flowers to produce fruit . Toencourage pollination , attract pollinatorsto your garden by planting companion plants such as marigold , zinnias , or sunflowers . you could also hand - pollinate the flowers bytransferring pollenfrom the manful flowers to the distaff flowers using a small thicket .
Mulching and Weed Control
Mulching around thewatermelon plant life helps keep back moisture , suppress gage , andregulate soil temperature . Useorganic materialssuch as shuck , hay , or shredded bark . Keep the area around the plant grass - free by hand - pulling or using a hoe . Weeds compete with the watermelons for nutrients and water .
Disease and Pest Control
watermelon are susceptible to sure disease and pests , include :
ascendancy diseases and pest by using disease - resistant mixture , practice crop rotation , and spraying with organic pesticide or neem oil .
Harvesting and Storage
Watermelons are ready for harvest time when the rind becomes obtuse and theunderside turns jaundiced . To harvest , cut the watermelon vine from the vine with a sharp knife . Store the watermelons in a nerveless , dark placefor up to two weeks .
Tips for Success
The Joy of Growing Black Watermelon
Growing pitch-dark watermelons is arewarding experiencethat render you with delicious , homegrown fruit . By following these footstep and embrace the summit above , you’re able to cultivate abountiful harvestof sweet , juicy grim watermelons that will delight yourtaste budsand nourish your body .
FAQ
Q : How long does it take to grow black watermelons?A : From planting to reap , black watermelon typicallytake 80 - 100 days to mature . Q : Can Igrow black watermelonsin containers?A : Yes , you cangrow shameful watermelonsin containers , but choose alarge containerwith at least 18 inches of depth and ensure it has adequate drain . Q : What is the best time to plant opprobrious Citrullus vulgaris seeds?A : Theoptimal timetoplant black watermelon seedsis after the last springtime hoarfrost , when thesoil temperaturehas warmed to at least 70 ° F .
