Key points
Indulge in the sweet and refreshing taste sensation ofhomegrown watermelonsby following thiscomprehensive guideon how to spring up watermelon vine outside . Fromseed selectionto harvesting , this clause will supply you with the of the essence knowledge and techniques to cultivate these juicy fruits in your backyard .
1. Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Watermelons thrive in full sun and well - debilitate soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 . Choose a position that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per mean solar day . Amend the soil withorganic matter , such as compost or manure , to better fertility and drain .
2. Seed Selection and Starting
Select Citrullus vulgaris varieties that are suited for your climate andgrowing season . starting line seed indoors 4 - 6 week before the lastfrost date . Sow seed 1/2 inch deep in a seed - starting mixing and keep them warm ( 70 - 80 ° F ) until they germinate .
3. Transplanting Seedlings
Once seedling have develop their first coiffure oftrue leaves , it ’s metre to transfer them outside . Harden off the seedlings bygradually exposingthem to out-of-door conditions for a week before transplantation . Dig hole 3 - 4 feet asunder and plant seedlings 2 - 3 inches deep .
4. Trellising and Support
Watermelon vine can grow up to 15 foot prospicient , soproviding supportis all important . Install trellises or wager to preclude the vines from sprawl on the ground . This will helpimprove strain circulation , decoct disease , and make it easier to harvest the melons .
5. Watering and Fertilizing
watermelon vine require regular tearing , especially during raging anddry weather condition . Water deeply and infrequently , allowing the ground to dry out slightly between lachrymation . Fertilize the plants every 2 - 3 hebdomad with a balanced fertiliser .
6. Pollination and Fruit Set
Watermelons are monoecious , mean they grow both virile andfemale flowerson the same plant . Pollination is essential forfruit lot . Attract pollinators like bee and butterfly stroke byplanting companion plantssuch as marigolds or sunflower .
7. Harvesting
watermelon are quick to glean when therind turns dulland the underside of themelon sprain yellowwhen tapped . utilize asharp knifeto cut the stem from the vine , leaving a small stub attached to the melon vine .
Tips for Success
Key Points: Reap the Rewards of Homegrown Watermelons
grow watermelons outside is arewarding experiencethat allows you to enjoy the pleasant-tasting and fresh yield of your labor . By following these guidelines , you cancultivate healthyandflavorful watermelonsthat will delight your phratry and protagonist .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : Can Igrow watermelonsin containers?A : Yes , it is potential togrow watermelonsin container as long as they are large enough ( at least 20 gallons ) and have adept drain . Q : What are thecommon pestsand diseases that regard watermelons?A : usual plague include aphids , Cucumis sativus beetles , and squelch bug . disease include anthracnose , powdery mildew , and fusarium wilt disease . Q : How can I keep my watermelons from cracking?A : Watermelons cancrack duetoinconsistent wateringor overwatering . Water theplants deeplyand infrequently , leave the soil to dry out out somewhat between waterings . Q : How long does it take to develop watermelons?A : From seed to harvest , watermelon vine typicallytake 80 - 100 daylight to suppurate . Q : Can Istore watermelonsfor later use?A : Yes , whole watermelons can be stored atroom temperaturefor up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator for up to 3 week . Cut Citrullus vulgaris should be refrigerated and consumed within 3 - 4 days .
