immediate summary
Watermelons , the quintessential summertime yield , are a brisk andflavorful treat . Growing your own watermelon vine plant can be a rewarding experience , but it requires right planning and tutelage . This comprehensive usher will provide you with gradation - by - step instructions on how toplant watermelon plantsand raise them to produce abountiful harvestof sweet and juicy watermelons .
Choosing the Right Location
watermelon thrive in warm , sunny locationswith well - drained soil . Choose a stain in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day . The filth should be loose and fertile , with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 .
Preparing the Soil
Before planting your watermelon source , prepare the grease by transfer any weeds or debris . Dig a hole about 6inches deepand 12inches wide . integrate in someorganic matter , such as compost or manure , to enrich the land .
Planting the Seeds
Plant 2 - 3watermelon seedsper hole , spacing them about 6 inch aside . overlay the seed with soil and water them gently . Keep thesoil moistbut not soggy .
Thinning the Seedlings
Once the seedlings have emerged and get to a height of about 2 inches , lose weight them out to thestrongest plantper hole . Usesharp scissorsto cut off theweaker seedlingsat the alkali .
Watering
watermelon postulate veritable lachrymation , especially during hot and juiceless weather . Water deeply , about 1 column inch per week . Avoid overwatering , as this can result to root rot .
Fertilizing
Mulching
Mulching around yourwatermelon plant helpstoretain moisture , suppress mourning band , and order land temperature . Use constituent materials such as straw , hay , or shredded leaves .
Pollination
Citrullus vulgaris demand pollenation to produce yield . If you are growing more than one watermelon plant , they will cross-pollinate each other . If you are only growing one industrial plant , you will require to pass on - pollinate the flowers . To do this , use asmall paintbrushor cotton swob to transpose pollen from themale flowers(which have long , thin stems ) to the distaff flowers ( which have short , thick stems ) .
Harvesting
Citrullus vulgaris are quick to harvest when the rind is operose and thebottom turn yellow . Tap the Citrullus vulgaris with your knucks ; if itsounds hollow , it is ripe . Use asharp knifeto slew the watermelon from the vine .
Troubleshooting
Common Problems
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : How long does it take to farm Citrullus vulgaris plants?A : From come to glean , watermelon plantstake about 80 - 100 twenty-four hours to ripen . Q : Can Igrow watermelon plantsin containers?A : Yes , you cangrow Citrullus vulgaris plantsinlarge containers(at least 24 inches in diameter ) . ensure the containers have drain holes . Q : What is the estimable way to store watermelon?A : Store whole watermelon in a cool , disconsolate placefor up to 2 weeks . cutting watermelon should be refrigerate and consume within a few years .
