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arise watermelon in your own garden is adelightful experiencethat can provide you with an abundance of sweet , red-hot fruits . Withproper planningand care , you could savor the taste ofhomegrown watermelonsall summer long . This comprehensive pathfinder will take the air you through every stair of the process , from take the right-hand diverseness to harvest your mature watermelons .
Choosing the Right Variety
The first step ingrowing watermelonsis pick out the ripe variety for your climate and preferences . There are many dissimilar types of watermelons useable , each with its ownunique characteristics . Some democratic varieties include :
Preparing the Soil
watermelon favour well - drain soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 . Before planting , set up the soil by till it to a deepness of 12 inches . Amend the filth with compost or manure toimprove fertilityand drain .
Planting the Seeds
Watermelon seed should be plant after the lastspring Robert Frost . Plant the seeds 1 in cryptical and 4 invertebrate foot asunder in rows that are 8 invertebrate foot apart . body of water the germ well and keep thesoil moistuntil germination occurs .
Watering
Watermelons want regular watering , specially during hot , dry weather . Water theplants deeplyand on a regular basis , allow the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings . fend off overwatering , as this can guide to stem rot .
Fertilizing
Mulching
Mulching around the watermelon plants aid toretain moisture , suppress weed , and regulate soil temperature . Use athick layeroforganic mulch , such as shuck , hay , or compost .
Pollination
Watermelons are self - productive , but they ask bee or other pollinators to set fruit . Toattract pollinators , industrial plant flowersnear your watermelon plot of ground .
Disease and Pest Control
watermelon vine are susceptible to a few disease and pests , including :
To prevent and control disease and pests , use good garden hygiene . Remove any infected leaves or fruits from the plants and dispose of them decently . Useorganic pest control methods , such asinsecticidal soapor neem oil , to moderate pests .
Harvesting
Watermelons are quick to glean when the rind turns dull and the undersurface of thefruit turns yellowish . mildly tapdance the watermelon vine ; it shouldsound hollowwhen it is right . Cut the watermelon from the vine with a sharp tongue .
Enjoying Your Homegrown Watermelons
watermelon are a delicious andrefreshing fruitthat can be enjoyed in many ways . use up them wise , make them into juice , or use them in salad , afters , and other recipes .
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q : How long does it take to grow watermelons?A : It takes about 80 - 100 days from planting to harvest . Q : Can Igrow watermelonsin containers?A : Yes , but choose alarge container(at least 2feet wideand deep ) and blue-ribbon acompact varietyof watermelon . Q : How do I choose a sweet watermelon?A : Look for a watermelon vine with adull rindand abright sensationalistic bottom . Tap the watermelon ; it shouldsound hollowwhen it is ripe . Q : What is the unspoiled way to store watermelons?A : shop watermelonsatroom temperaturefor up to a week or in the icebox for up to two weeks . Q : Can Isave watermelon seedsfor next year?A : Yes , but only if the Citrullus vulgaris is a non - hybrid motley . Scoop out the seed and dry them in a lovesome , dry lieu .
