Growing watermelon is easy when you have the right conditions!

This juicy fruit is famous for its sweet flavor and hydrating kick. Better yet, learning how to grow watermelon yourself will give you even tastier results.

In this post, you’ll learn how to grow watermelon from seed to harvest. Let’s get started!

The Best Watermelon Seeds

Watermelon comes in many different varieties, each with its own unique characteristics.

Some varieties are better suited to certain climates or soil types than others. Here are a few popular varieties to consider:

1. Charleston Gray: This variety produces large, oblong fruit with sweet flesh. It is resistant to many common diseases and pests.
2. Crimson Sweet: This variety produces round fruit with a dark green rind. It’s also resistant to many diseases and pests.
3. Sugar Baby: This variety produces small, round fruit with a thin rind and sweet, red flesh. It is ideal for small gardens or containers.
4. Jubilee: This variety produces large, oval fruit.

Preparing the Soil

Watermelons require well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter. They also need plenty of space to spread out, so make sure to plant them at least six feet apart. Here are some steps to prepare your soil for watermelon seeds:

1. Choose a sunny location: Watermelons need full sun to thrive, so choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
2. Amend the soil: Add plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to your soil. This will help improve drainage and provide nutrients for your plants.
3. Test the pH: Watermelons prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Test your soil with a pH testing kit and adjust as needed.

How To Plant Watermelon Seeds

Watermelon seeds should be planted directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Here are some steps to planting watermelon seeds:

1. Make a small mound: Use a hoe or shovel to make a small mound of soil about 6 inches high and 2 feet wide.
2. Plant the seeds: Plant two to three watermelon seeds in each mound, about one inch deep.
3. Water the seeds: Give the seeds a good watering to help them settle into the soil.
4. Thin the seedlings: Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them to one plant per mound.

Caring for Watermelon

Watermelons require regular watering, fertilizing, and pest control to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your watermelon plants:

1. Watering: Watermelons need at least 1 inch of water per week. Be sure to water deeply to encourage root growth.
2. Fertilizing: Watermelons benefit from a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 blend. Apply fertilizer every 3-4 weeks.
3. Pest control: Watermelons are susceptible to a variety of pests, including aphids, cucumber beetles, and squash bugs. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation and treat as needed.
4. Support: As the fruit grows, it may need support to prevent it from breaking off the vine.

When To Harvest Watermelon?

Watermelons are ready to harvest when the fruit is fully ripe and the stem begins to dry out.

The melon should have at least two inches of stem. Use a sharp knife to cut the vine from the fruit.

Before cutting, smell and feel the watermelon. Does it have a sweet aroma? Knock on the rind, is it hollow or dense sounding?

You’ll want to eat the melon when it has a vibrant dark & light green exterior(in addition to the sweet smell and dense sound).