Overview
Watermelons , with their dulcet , fat flesh and thirst - quenching holding , are a summertime staple . Growing your own watermelons fromseed offersa rewarding experience and the gratification of savoring the fruits of your working class . This comprehensive guide will cater you with step - by - step instructions and valuable tips on how togrow watermelonfrom seed , empowering you to work your ownbackyard oasisof watermelon abundance .
Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety
select the rightwatermelon varietyis crucial for success . Consider factors such as climate , grow season , andpersonal preference . Some popular varieties admit :
Preparing the Soil
watermelon prosper in well - drained , arenaceous loam soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 . Before planting , amend the soil with plenty of constituent matter , such as compost or manure , toimprove fertilityand drainage .
Starting Seeds Indoors
To exsert the grow season , jump seeds indoors 4 - 6 week before the lastfrost date . Sow seeds 1inch deepin a germ - start mix and provide heat ( 70 - 80 ° degree Fahrenheit ) and ample sun .
Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors
When seedlings have develop true leaves , it ’s fourth dimension to transplant them alfresco . Choose a warm , cheery locationwith well - run out soil . Space plants 4 - 6 feet aside to take into account forproper growthand airwave circulation .
Watering
Watermelons have adeep root organisation , so they need consistent watering . Water profoundly and on a regular basis , especially during hot , teetotal weather . Avoid overwatering , as waterlogged land can lead to root rot .
Fertilizing
Fertilize watermelons every 3 - 4 weeks with abalanced fertilizer . Use a fertilizer with a proportion of 10 - 10 - 10 or 12 - 12 - 12 .
Mulching
Mulching aroundwatermelon plants helps retain wet , suppress weed , and modulate soil temperature . Useorganic mulch , such as shuck , hay , or shredded leaves .
Pollination
watermelon are monoicous , meaning they have both manly andfemale flowerson the same works . However , pollination is essential forfruit production . bee and other worm help pollinate the flowers .
Harvesting
Watermelons are ready to glean when therind turns dulland the bottom of themelon turns yellowwhen thumped . Use a sharp knife to trim down the watermelon from the vine , leave a minuscule stem .
In a nutshell: Reap the Sweet Rewards of Your Watermelon Cultivation
Growing Citrullus vulgaris from seed is a fulfil andrewarding endeavour . By following these steps and encompass the tips provided , you could naturalize a bountiful harvest of sweet , juicy watermelonsthat will delight your taste buds and nourish your consistence . adopt the delight of homegrown produce and enjoy the refreshing fruit of your parturiency all summer long .
Popular Questions
1 . When is the good meter to plant Citrullus vulgaris seeds?Start seeds indoors 4 - 6 calendar week before the lastfrost engagement . Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last rime date.2 . How deep should I implant watermelon seeds?Sow seeds 1inch deepin a seed - starting commixture or well - drained soil.3 . How often should I water watermelon plants?Water deep and regularly , specially during live , dry weather . Avoid overwatering.4 . What type of fertilizer should I use for watermelon plants?Use abalanced fertilizerwith a proportion of 10 - 10 - 10 or 12 - 12 - 12 . Fertilize every 3 - 4 weeks.5 . How can I tell when a watermelon vine is ripe?Therind turns tedious , and the bottom of themelon turns yellowwhen pound .