Watermelon is a delicious fruit that people often look forward to during the summer. It is a refreshing snack that is perfect for hot days. But did you know that you can grow your own watermelons right in your backyard? Not only is it a fun activity, but it’s also a great way to have fresh, tasty watermelon right at your fingertips. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of how to grow watermelons, including when to plant them, how to care for them, and more.
Choosing the Right Watermelon Varieties
Before you start growing watermelons, it’s essential to pick the right variety. There are many different types of watermelons available, ranging in size, shape, and taste. Here are a few popular watermelon varieties to consider:
Crimson Sweet
Crimson Sweet is a classic watermelon variety that is easy to grow and produces large, sweet fruit. The fruit is oblong-shaped, with dark green stripes on a light green background.
Sugar Baby
Sugar Baby is a smaller variety of watermelon that is popular for its sweet flavor and small size. This type of watermelon is perfect for those with limited garden space.
Jubilee
Jubilee is a large, oblong-shaped watermelon that has a thick, bright green rind and sweet, juicy flesh. This variety is perfect for those who want to grow watermelons for a backyard barbecue or picnic.
Planting Watermelon
The best time to plant watermelon is in late spring or early summer. Watermelons love warm weather and need plenty of sunshine to grow well. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when planting watermelon:
Choose a Sunny Spot
Watermelons need at least six hours of sunlight each day. Choose a spot in your garden that gets plenty of sun and is well-drained.
Prepare the Soil
Watermelons prefer fertile, well-draining soil. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches and add compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil’s fertility.
Plant the Seeds
Plant the watermelon seeds about 1 inch deep and 3-4 feet apart. Water the seeds immediately after planting.
Caring for Watermelon Plants
Once your watermelon plants have germinated, it’s essential to care for them properly. Here are a few tips on how to care for watermelon plants:
Water Regularly
Watermelon plants need plenty of water to thrive. Water them deeply once a week or more, depending on how dry the soil is.
Fertilize the Plants
Fertilize your watermelon plants with a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks. This will help promote growth and increase fruit production.
Control Weeds
Weeds can compete with watermelon plants for nutrients and water. Keep your garden weed-free by pulling or hoeing weeds regularly.
Protect the Fruit
As your watermelon plants start to produce fruit, it’s essential to protect the fruit from pests and diseases. Cover the developing fruit with a mesh bag or pantyhose to prevent pests from attacking them.
Harvesting Watermelon
Watermelons are ready to harvest when the bottom of the fruit turns from white to yellow, and the stem starts to dry out. Tap on the fruit-ripe watermelon should sound hollow. Use a pruning shears to cut the melon from the vine.
Concluding Thoughts on Growing Watermelon
Growing watermelons can be a fun and rewarding experience. With a little bit of effort and proper care, you can have fresh, delicious watermelon right in your backyard. Remember to select the right variety, plant at the right time, and care for your plants properly, and you’ll have a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy watermelons.
FAQs about Growing Watermelon
1. How long does it take to grow watermelon?
It takes about 80-100 days for most watermelon varieties to go from seed to harvest.
2. How do I know when my watermelon is ready to harvest?
Watermelons are ready to harvest when the bottom of the fruit turns from white to yellow, and the stem starts to dry out. The fruit should sound hollow when tapped.
3. Can I grow watermelon in a container?
Yes, you can grow watermelon in a large container, as long as it’s big enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Choose a container that’s at least 20 inches in diameter and 10 inches deep.
4. How often should I water my watermelon plants?
Watermelon plants need plenty of water to thrive. Water them deeply once a week or more, depending on how dry the soil is.
5. Do watermelons need pollination to grow?
Yes, watermelons need pollination to produce fruit. They are usually pollinated by bees, so it’s essential to attract bees to your garden by planting flowers that attract pollinators.
