Highlights
grow watermelon naturally is an enrich andrewarding experiencethat allows you to savor thesweet tasteof homegrown produce . This comprehensive pathfinder will endue you with the knowledge and technique to civilise plump , juicy watermelon in your backyard or garden . By embracing lifelike methods , you’re able to raise your plants without trust onchemical fertilizersor pesticides .
1. Selecting the Right Variety
The first step towardssuccessful watermelon cultivationis select the appropriate variety . Consider factors such as your mood , grime type , and desire size and flavor . Some pop watermelon varieties for instinctive growing include :
2. Preparing the Soil
Watermelons thrive in well - drained , sandy loam soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 . organize the soil by till it to a depth of at least 12 inches and amend it withorganic mattersuch as compost or manure . Avoid planting watermelons in the samelocation yearafter yr to prevent grease - borne diseases .
3. Sowing the Seeds
Start watermelon seeds indoors 4 - 6 calendar week before the last frost date . Sow the seed 1inch deepin a seed - starting mixture and keep them tender and moist . Once the seedling have prepare their first set oftrue leaf , transplant them into single containers .
4. Transplanting the Seedlings
When thesoil temperaturehas warmed to at least 70 ° F ( 21 ° C ) , transplant thewatermelon seedlings outdoors . Space the plant 3 - 4 feet aside in rows 6 - 8 feet apart . Water theplants deeplyafter transplanting .
5. Watering and Fertilizing
Watermelons require regular lachrymation , especially during hot , dry weather . Water deeply and infrequently , allowing the grime to dry out somewhat between tearing . Avoid overwatering , as this can lead to root buncombe . fecundate the plants with a balanced constitutional fertilizer every 3 - 4 weeks .
6. Mulching and Weed Control
Spread a level of mulch around thewatermelon plantsto helper retain moisture , suppress sens , andregulate soil temperature . expend organic materials such as straw , hay , or shredded leave . Keep the area around the works weed - free , as weeds compete for nutrient and weewee .
7. Pollination
Watermelons are monecious , meaning they have both male and distaff blossom on the same flora . However , the manlike flowers bloom first , so it ’s crucial to hired hand - pollinate the distaff flowers toensure yield set . To do this , gently removea manlike prime and touch the pollen - covered stamen to the stigma of a distaff flower .
8. Pest and Disease Management
lifelike gadfly anddisease direction practicesare of the essence for grow watermelons without chemical . rough-cut pests admit aphids , Cucumis sativus beetle , and mash vine borers . Control them by using organic methods such ascompanion planting , insecticidal liquid ecstasy , or neem oil . disease such aspowdery mildewand anthracnose can be prevented by providing good airwave circulation and avoiding overhead watering .
9. Ripening and Harvesting
watermelon are ripe when the rind grow muffled and the underside of thefruit turn xanthous . rap the watermelon vine with your knuckles ; it shouldsound hollowwhen it ’s right . Harvest the watermelons by cutting them from the vine with a shrewd knife .
10. Storing and Enjoying
Store ripe watermelon vine atroom temperaturefor up to a hebdomad . For long storage , localize them in the icebox , where they will keep for 2 - 3 workweek . Enjoy yourhomegrown watermelons fresh , in salads , or as a brisk succus .
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q : How do I know if my watermelon is pollinated?A : After pollination , thefemale flowerswilldevelop small fruitsat their al-Qaida . Q : What causes watermelons to crack?A : crack canoccur duetoinconsistent wateringor sudden change in grunge wet . Q : How can I prevent flush - end rot in watermelons?A : efflorescence - end guff is caused bycalcium deficiency . Ensure adequate calcium story by applying a calcium - ample fertilizer .
