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Watermelons , with their gamey , fresh flesh and sweet taste , are a summertime staple . Growing your own watermelons at home can be arewarding experience , providing you with an copiousness of tonic , organic fruit . In thiscomprehensive usher , we ’ll delveinto the intricacies of how to implant watermelon seeds at home , empowering you to cultivate your own luscious watermelon plot of land .
Choosing the Right Watermelon Seeds
The first step in planting watermelon germ is selecting the right-hand assortment . Choose semen that are adapted to your clime and growing condition . Consider factors such as maturity time , disease resistance , andfruit sizing . Somepopular Citrullus vulgaris varietiesfor home horticulture include :
Preparing the Soil
Citrullus vulgaris flourish in well - drained , sandy loam soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.8 . Prepare the land by tilling it to a depth of 12 inches and mixing in plenty oforganic matter , such as compost or manure . assure the soil is warm and loose before planting the come .
Planting the Seeds
Germination and Seedling Care
Germination typically occurs within 7 - 10 days . Once theseedlings emerge , water them regularly and inseminate them with a balanced fertilizer . Protect the seedlings from pests and diseases by using constitutional method such as neem oil or fellow planting .
Trellising and Pruning
As thewatermelon vines grow , they will need livelihood . Trellising thevines helpskeep them off the earth , preventing disease and better fruit output . Use a trellis or stake to guide the vine upwards . Pruning is also essential for watermelon plant . murder anyside shootsthat grow from themain stem , as they candivert energyaway from fruit product . focalize on maintaining 2 - 3 main vines per plant .
Pollination
Watermelons need hybridisation - pollenation to produce fruit . If you ’re grow only one watermelon vine plant , you may need to hand - pollinate the flowers . utilize asmall brushto transfer pollen from the male flowers ( with stamens ) to thefemale flowers(with pistils ) .
Watering and Fertilizing
Harvesting
watermelon are quick to reap when theyreach full sizeand the rind turns from green to a dull , creamy color . Tap the watermelon lightly with your knuckle duster ; it shouldsound hollowif it ’s ripe . Cut the watermelon from the vine with a acute knife , leave a 2 - column inch stem sequester .
Storing Watermelon
storage harvest Citrullus vulgaris in a nerveless , dry place . They can be hold for several weeks if stored properly .
Tips for Success
The Bottom Line
develop watermelon seeds at home is a carry out try that can supply you with an abundance of fresh , delicious fruit . By following the steps outlined in this guide , you may successfully cultivate your ownwatermelon patchand enjoy thesweet rewardsof your labor .
Information You Need to Know
Q : How long does it take togrow watermelonfrom seed?A : Watermelon industrial plant typicallytake 80 - 100 days to mature from come to glean . Q : Can Igrow watermelonin containers?A : Yes , you cangrow watermelonin containers . Choose a container that is at least 18 inches in diam and 12 inch deep . Q : Why are my Citrullus vulgaris leaves twist yellow?A : Yellowing watermelon leavescan be a house ofnutrient deficiency , overwatering , or disease . assure thesoil pHand fertilize the works if necessary .
