Watermelon is a plant closely related to cucumber, so water often and generously, and it happily accepts a leaf shower now and then.
To plant watermelon outdoors, you should have plenty of space for it, as it produces large fruits and can grow tall. If you have a greenhouse, this is an excellent location for your watermelons, as they also thrive in warmer climates. The plants prefer temperatures around 20-25 degrees Celsius, so if you're planting without a greenhouse, it's important that the location is warm and sunny.
Watermelon can be found as a ready plant, but it's also common to plant from seed. If you choose to do this, you can start sowing your seeds at the end of March or beginning of April. It's also important to choose the right variety of melon for your garden; it may be beneficial to choose a smaller variety, as it can develop faster than a larger one.
How do I do it, step by step
From seed:
- Start by selecting a well-drained pot that provides plenty of space for the watermelon to develop good roots.
- Moisten the soil and press your melon seed about 1cm into the soil.
- Place the pot in a warm, sunny spot indoors.
- Water often; the plant thrives best if the soil remains moist but not wet.
For planting out/planting from a ready plant:
- Wait until you are absolutely sure there will be no more frost.
- Choose a calm spot with plenty of sun; a greenhouse or a standalone plot works well.
- Prepare the soil by loosening it and adding fertilizer. Also, moisten the soil, preferably with a hose with a spray nozzle.
- Plant your seedlings, deep enough for the entire root ball, and if you're going to let them climb, place your trellis or stakes now to guide them correctly from the start.
- Space your plants about 80 cm apart if they are going to grow on the ground, and about 35 cm apart if they are going to climb.
What do I need?
- Hand Tool Spade
- Garden hose Deluxe
- Multi-jet pistol Deluxe
- Watering Can Premium
- Trellis or tall stakes
- Hand Tool Hoe
How do I plant watermelon?
To plant a watermelon, start by finding a good spot for it and deciding whether you want to grow it vertically or horizontally. If you want to grow it vertically, it may be beneficial to do so in a greenhouse, while if you want to grow it horizontally, a standalone plot may provide better space. The spot you choose should have plenty of sun but be relatively sheltered from the wind to allow the plants and fruits to develop in peace. It's also important to add fertilizer and nutrients to the soil before planting to allow the plants to develop strongly from the beginning. Dig holes deep enough for the entire root ball, with spacing of 80 cm between if you intend for your watermelons to grow on the ground, and a spacing of about 35 cm if they are going to grow vertically. Cover the roots with a little soil, and place your trellis or stakes now, so they climb correctly from the start.
How do I care for and water my watermelons?
As mentioned earlier, watermelons are closely related to cucumbers, which means they like it warm and prefer to have consistently moist soil. It's also good to replenish with nutrients and fertilizer during the season, as much gets washed away during the abundant watering. Like with strawberries, it's good to lay down straw, bark, or similar material around the plants, partly to keep weeds away but also to help the soil retain the moisture it needs. Keep an eye on them throughout the season and weed so your watermelon doesn't have to compete for water. If you want your watermelon to climb, you'll need to help it climb and ensure the fruits have support as they begin to develop.
When should I harvest my watermelons?
Knowing when your watermelon is ready to harvest can be tricky, but there are a few different things to keep track of. Watermelons start to emit a faint scent when they are ready to harvest, and if they grow on the ground, you'll know they're ready when they form a yellow spot where they touch the ground. You can also tap your watermelon lightly; if it gives off a hollow sound, it's ready. It should also release if you gently tug on the stem; if it's firmly attached, it's not yet ripe.
We wish you the best of luck with your watermelons!
