Learn how to grow delicious watermelons with 5 gallon buckets and hanging baskets.

Growing watermelons can be a rewarding and delicious endeavor for gardeners who enjoy the sweet, juicy fruits of their labor. Watermelons require a relatively long growing season, typically about 80-90 days from sowing the seeds. Thriving best in warm weather, it is essential to plant watermelons when the soil has warmed to around 70ºF and there are no cool nights in the forecast.

In order to achieve a successful watermelon crop, gardeners should start by selecting a suitable location with well-draining, rich soil, preferably with a mildly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Amending the soil with plenty of organic matter before planting is advised as watermelons are heavy feeders. When the soil reaches the optimal temperature, seeds can be sown about 1 inch deep, with 2 to 3 seeds placed in each group for optimal growth. Once seedlings are established, thinning them down to the strongest plant in each group will help ensure proper spacing and growth.

Regular watering is crucial for newly transplanted watermelon seedlings, and attention to this detail will significantly impact the success of the crop. With proper care, patience, and a bit of gardening know-how, one can enjoy the delightfully refreshing, sun-ripened watermelons throughout the warmer months.

Choosing the Right Location and Soil

Soil Temperature

Watermelons require a warm environment for successful growth. The ideal soil temperature for planting watermelon seeds is between 70°F and 90°F. Planting during a time when the soil reaches those temperatures will help improve germination and maximize plant health.

Soil pH

For optimal growth, watermelons prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, ranging between 6.0 and 7.5. Testing the soil’s pH level in your garden before planting can aid in determining whether adjustments are necessary. If needed, you can amend the soil with lime or sulfur to reach the desired pH range.

Soil Amendments

Proper soil amendments are crucial for watermelon growth. It’s best to choose a loamy, somewhat-sandy, well-drained soil, as watermelons can struggle in clay-heavy soil with poor drainage. Adding aged compost or aged manure can enrich the soil with nutrients and improve its texture. A recommended amendment process might include:

• Adding 1-2 inches of compost before planting
• Incorporating organic planting mix or aged manure before planting
• Turning the soil to a depth of 12 inches (30cm)

It’s also essential to pick the right location for watermelon plants. They thrive in full sun and need plenty of space, as each plant may require up to 20 square feet. Adequate spacing between plants, preferably 36 inches apart, in small hills or raised rows, can promote better airflow and reduce the risk of disease.

In summary, growing watermelons successfully relies on choosing an ideal location with the right soil temperature, pH, and texture. Proper soil amendments, such as compost and organic materials, can enhance soil properties and support healthy watermelon plant growth.

Preparing for Planting

Determining the Frost Date

Before planting watermelon seeds, it’s crucial to determine the last average frost date in your area. Watermelons thrive in warm temperatures, so planting too early could harm the seeds and seedlings. To check the last frost date, you can consult resources like local weather stations, gardening clubs, or online gardening websites.

Starting Seeds Indoors

In cooler climates or if you want to get a head start on the growing season, consider starting watermelon seeds indoors. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Plant watermelon seeds in a soilless potting mix.
2. Keep the seedlings in a warm location with a temperature consistently above 50°F (10°C).
3. Make sure the seedlings receive ample moisture, but avoid over-watering.

Note that it’s essential not to start watermelon seeds too early, as large plants transplant poorly into the garden. Moreover, once planted in the garden, root disturbance should be minimized.

Transplanting Seedlings

When it’s time to transplant the young watermelon plants into the garden, follow these guidelines to ensure good root growth and healthy plants:

1. Wait for 3 to 4 weeks after the last average frost date before transplanting.
2. Choose a well-draining, rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 6.8.
3. Amend the soil with 1-2 inches of compost prior to planting.
4. Sow the seeds or transplant seedlings into small hills or rows approximately 36 inches apart.

Here is a quick summary of what you need to do when transplanting:

Steps	Description
1. Timing	Wait for 3 to 4 weeks after the last average frost date.
2. Soil and pH	Choose well-draining, rich soil with a pH between 6.0 to 6.8.
3. Soil amendment	Add 1-2 inches of compost to the soil.
4. Planting arrangement	Sow seeds or transplant seedlings 36 inches apart in small hills or rows.

Remember to follow these guidelines when preparing for watermelon planting to ensure a successful and bountiful harvest.

Planting Techniques

Hill Planting

One effective method for planting watermelons is using hills. Amend the soil with 1-2 inches of compost before planting the seeds. Create raised rows or hills to ensure good drainage and better heat retention. Plant seeds about 1/2 inch deep in these hills and space them 2-3 feet apart in a 5-foot-wide hill. In each hill, plant 6-8 seeds. This approach gives the watermelon vines plenty of room to sprawl and grow.

Using Row Covers

To protect young watermelon plants from frost or cold temperatures, consider using row covers. It’s crucial to wait until outdoor temperatures consistently stay above 50°F (10°C) before transplanting watermelon seedlings to the garden. Sow the seeds in soilless potting mix and ensure the seedlings are warm and moist. Row covers can provide an extra layer of protection during those early days, helping the seedlings establish themselves in the outdoor environment.

Considering Black Plastic

Another technique to aid in the growth of watermelon plants is using black plastic to warm the soil. Covering the outdoor soil with black plastic can help achieve the necessary 70°F (20°C) temperature required for watermelon plants. Create slightly mounded hills spaced 4-6 feet apart before laying the black plastic. Plant four to five seeds in the center of the hill, about 1 inch deep. The black plastic will help retain heat, giving the plants a headstart in their growth process.

In addition to the planting techniques, remember to properly care for your watermelon plants by mulching, providing adequate water, and avoiding wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues.

Watermelon Varieties

Watermelons (Citrullus lanatus) are native to Africa and offer a diverse range of options to suit different growing conditions and personal preferences. This section covers three main subcategories of watermelon varieties: Seedless Watermelons, Bush Varieties, and Specialty Varieties.

Seedless Watermelons

Seedless watermelons have gained popularity for their convenient, seed-free flesh. Despite the name, these watermelons do contain tiny, edible white seeds. Some popular seedless varieties include:

• Tri-X 313: A widely grown variety with sweet, red flesh.
• Liberty: Known for its crisp texture and high sugar content.
• Crimson: Features a deep red, juicy flesh with a high sugar content.

Bush Varieties

Bush varieties, also known as compact or dwarf watermelons, are ideal for gardeners with limited space. These watermelons have a shorter vine length compared to traditional varieties. Some popular bush varieties are:

• Sugar Baby: A small, round watermelon with sweet, red flesh and dark green skin.
• Bush Sugar Baby: A compact version of the Sugar Baby, suitable for container gardening.
• Mickylee: Features sweet, red flesh and is resistant to common watermelon diseases.

Specialty Varieties

Specialty watermelons include unique colors or flavors that go beyond the standard red-fleshed watermelon. Some examples of specialty varieties are:

• Yellow Doll: A small, round watermelon with sweet, yellow flesh and a thin rind.
• Orangeglo: A large, oblong watermelon with sweet, orange flesh and a distinct flavor.
• Moon and Stars: A unique variety with a dark green rind, speckled with small, yellow dots (stars), and a larger, yellow patch (moon) on the surface. It has sweet, red flesh.

By selecting the appropriate watermelon variety for your specific needs and growing conditions, you will be able to enjoy the delicious taste of fresh, homegrown watermelon.

Caring for Watermelon Plants

Watering Practices

Watermelon plants require 1 to 2 inches of water per week during their growing, blooming, and fruit-setting stages. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is essential to water the vines at their base in the morning and avoid wetting the leaves or using overhead watering methods. Once the fruit begins to grow, reduce the watering frequency, as dry weather contributes to sweeter melons.

Fertilizing

Proper fertilization is crucial for healthy watermelon plants. Apply a balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the early growth stages, preferably at a ratio of 10-10-10. It is also beneficial to enhance the soil with organic matter like compost or well-aged manure. Monitor the plants for nitrogen deficiency indicated by pale green leaves or slow growth, and adjust the fertilizing routine accordingly.

Pruning

Pruning watermelon plants can improve airflow, reduce the risk of diseases, and encourage healthy fruit development. Follow these steps for effective pruning:

1. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged leaves and vines.
2. Thin out overcrowded leaves and shoots to allow adequate sunlight penetration and air circulation.
3. Limit the number of fruit per plant to 2-3 large ones or 4-6 small ones, depending on the variety. Remove the rest of the developing fruits to redirect the plant’s energy for better growth and ripening.
4. Cut back overly long or unproductive vines to maintain the plant’s shape and vigor.

By implementing proper watering, fertilizing, and pruning practices, you can encourage healthy growth and improve the overall quality of your watermelon plants.

Pollination

Male and Female Flowers

Watermelon plants produce separate male and female flowers. Male flowers appear first, and female flowers follow with a swollen base that turns into fruit once pollinated. It is essential to understand the difference between male and female flowers for successful watermelon cultivation. Here is a brief comparison:

• Male Flowers: No swollen base, produce pollen, more numerous than female flowers
• Female Flowers: Swollen base (ovary), require pollen from male flowers, fewer in number than male flowers.

Attracting Pollinators

Natural pollinators, such as bees, play a crucial role in watermelon pollination. However, if you notice low bee activity in your garden, you can take steps to attract more pollinators and ensure successful pollination. Some of the methods include:

• Planting various flowers near the watermelon patch – this adds color and diversity that attracts bees and other pollinators.
• Avoiding pesticide use – pesticides can harm beneficial insects such as bees, which are crucial for pollination.
• Providing water sources: shallow containers filled with water and small rocks can offer a safe watering spot for pollinators.

Additionally, you can also hand-pollinate watermelons by transferring pollen from male flowers to female flowers. Hand-pollination can be done in two ways:

1. Using a male flower: Carefully remove a male flower from the plant and strip away its petals, leaving only the stamen. Gently touch the stamen to the center of the female flower (the stigma) to deposit pollen.
2. Using a paintbrush: Gently dip a small, soft-bristled paintbrush into the male flower’s stamen to collect pollen. Then, carefully brush the pollen onto the female flower’s stigma.

By recognizing the differences between male and female flowers and boosting pollinator activity, your watermelon plants’ pollination process will improve, increasing your chances of growing large, juicy, and delicious fruits.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Common Pests

Watermelons can be affected by various pests, including:

• Aphids
• Cucumber beetles
• Flea beetles
• Squash bugs
• Squash vine borers
• Slugs
• Snails
• Cutworms
• Spider mites

To control these pests, consider the following methods:

1. Practice good sanitation by removing weeds, dead plants, and debris that can harbor pests and disease organisms.
2. Rotate watermelon crops each year to avoid repeating the same issues in the same location.
3. Apply a layer of mulch to keep soil-based pests away from the vines.
4. Regularly inspect plants and remove invaders when possible.
5. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed to combat persistent pests.

Managing Diseases

Watermelons can be susceptible to various diseases, such as:

• Powdery mildew
• Fruit rot
• Blight
• Mosaic viruses

To manage and prevent these diseases, implement the following strategies:

1. Plant watermelon seeds in well-draining soil to help prevent root rot and other soil-borne diseases.
2. Provide adequate space between plants to promote air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew.
3. Water plants at the base rather than overhead to reduce moisture on leaves which can promote fungal diseases.
4. Remove any infected plant material immediately to prevent the spread of diseases.
5. Use disease-resistant cultivars when available.

Implementing these practices can help growers maintain healthy watermelon crops and reduce the negative impacts of pests and diseases.

Harvesting Your Watermelons

Ripeness Indicators

Determining the right time to harvest your watermelons is crucial, as they do not continue ripening after being picked. Ripeness can be assessed through a few indicators:

• Tendrils: Observe the tendrils on the watermelon’s fruiting vine—the small, curly growths near the stem. These tendrils turn brown and dry up when the watermelon is ripe.
• Color: Check the underside of the watermelon, which should display a creamy, yellow color instead of white or green when ripe.
• Thump test: Gently thump the watermelon with your knuckle. A ripe watermelon will produce a dull, hollow sound. An immature fruit will have a higher pitched and more solid sound.

Keep an eye on your watermelons as they ripen over a two-week period.

Proper Harvesting Techniques

Once the watermelon’s ripeness indicators are confirmed, use the following harvesting techniques to ensure you get the best quality fruit:

1. Use a clean, sharp knife or a pair of pruning shears to cut the watermelon from the vine. Make the cut close to the fruit, leaving about an inch of the stem attached.
2. Handle the watermelon gently to avoid injuring the fruit.
3. After harvesting, keep the watermelons at a consistent temperature (around 50-60°F) and away from direct sunlight to maintain their freshness.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a successful harvest and savor the delicious, home-grown watermelons from your garden.

Tips for Growing Watermelons in Different Climates

Warm Temperatures

In warmer climates, with long growing seasons, growing watermelons tends to be easier. Plant seeds directly in your garden beds two weeks after the last danger of frost has passed, or whenever the soil temperature is regularly above 70℉. Watermelons need plenty of sunlight, so choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. The soil should be well-drained, rich, and sandy, with a mildly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Amend the soil with organic matter before planting, as watermelons are heavy feeders.

Plant seeds ½ inch to 1 inch deep, placing two or three seeds in groups 18 to 24 inches apart. Thin out the seedlings once they are established, keeping the strongest plant in each group. Watermelons require regular watering, especially during the early stages of growth. Using mulch can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth while keeping the soil temperature stable.

Cooler Climates

Growing watermelons in cooler climates with shorter growing seasons can be challenging, but it’s possible with suitable varieties like ‘Blacktail Mountain’ and proper care. Plastic mulch and floating row covers should be used to trap warm air and keep it close to the plants. These measures are crucial for successful watermelon growth in zone 5 and other cooler regions.

Plant seeds ½ inch to 1 inch deep in groups of two to three seeds, spaced 18 to 24 inches apart in rows that are 5 to 6 feet apart. Like in warmer climates, watermelons need a well-draining, sandy soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.8.

In cooler climates, it may be beneficial to start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date to give them a head start. Transplant the seedlings outdoors once the soil temperature has consistently reached 65°F, preferably into a location with ample sunlight. Be mindful of the transplanting process and avoid disturbing the roots, as watermelons are sensitive to root disturbance.

Monitor soil moisture levels throughout the growing season, ensuring regular watering while avoiding over-watering. A creamy yellow spot, known as a “belly,” is a sign that your watermelon is ripe and ready to harvest.