Watermelon On The Vine: A Guide to Growing and Enjoying This Delicious Fruit

Oleh Kathy Harvey June 05, 2023 Post a Comment

Watermelons are a summertime staple, and nothing is better than biting into a juicy piece of watermelon on a hot summer day. But have you ever considered growing your own watermelon on the vine? Not only is it a fun and rewarding activity, but it also allows you to enjoy this delicious fruit at its freshest and most flavorful. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about growing watermelon on the vine, from selecting the right variety to harvesting and enjoying your bounty.

Selecting the Right Variety

The first step in growing watermelon on the vine is selecting the right variety. There are many different types of watermelon available, each with its own unique flavor and characteristics. Some popular varieties include:

Crimson Sweet: This classic watermelon has a bright red flesh and a sweet, juicy flavor. It's a great all-purpose melon that can be used for snacking or in recipes.
Sugar Baby: This smaller watermelon has a dark green rind and a deep red flesh. It's perfect for small gardens or containers and has a very sweet flavor.
Charleston Gray: This watermelon has a light green rind and a sweet, juicy flesh. It's a larger melon that's great for sharing with friends and family.
Moon and Stars: This heirloom variety has a dark green rind with yellow spots, giving it the appearance of a starry night sky. The flesh is sweet and juicy, with a slightly nutty flavor.

When selecting your watermelon seeds, make sure to choose a variety that's well-suited to your climate and growing conditions.

Planting and Growing Watermelon

Once you've selected your watermelon seeds, it's time to plant and grow them. Here are some tips to help you get ed:

Choose a sunny spot: Watermelons need plenty of sun to grow and ripen properly, so choose a spot in your garden that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Prepare the soil: Watermelons prefer well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. Before planting, amend your soil with compost or other organic matter to improve its texture and fertility.
Plant the seeds: Plant your watermelon seeds directly in the ground once the soil has warmed up to at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Space the seeds about two feet apart and plant them one inch deep.
Water regularly: Watermelons need plenty of water to grow, so make sure to keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to water deeply and avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to disease.
Fertilize as needed: Watermelons are heavy feeders and may require additional nutrients throughout the growing season. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every three weeks or use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the season.

Managing Pests and Diseases

Like any other crop, watermelons can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common problems to watch out for:

Aphids: These small insects can infest your watermelon plants, sucking sap from the leaves and causing them to yellow and curl. Control aphids by spraying your plants with a mixture of water and dish soap or using an insecticidal soap.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can appear as a white, powdery coating on the leaves of your watermelon plants. Control powdery mildew by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around your plants.
Squash bugs: These pests can attack your watermelon plants, causing leaves to wilt and fruit to rot. Control squash bugs by handpicking them off your plants or using an insecticide.

Harvesting and Enjoying Your Watermelon

The moment you've been waiting for has arrived: it's time to harvest your watermelon! Here are some tips for making sure your melons are ripe and ready to eat:

Check the tendril: One way to tell if your watermelon is ripe is to check the tendril near the stem. When the tendril turns brown and dries up, your melon is ready to harvest.
Look for a yellow spot: Another sign of ripeness is a yellow spot on the bottom of the watermelon where it sat on the ground. If this spot is creamy yellow, your melon is ripe and ready to eat.
Harvest carefully: Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut your watermelon from the vine, being careful not to damage the stem or fruit.
Enjoy! There are countless ways to enjoy fresh watermelon, from slicing it up for a refreshing snack to using it in salads, smoothies, and other recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How long does it take to grow watermelon on the vine?

Watermelons typically take between 80 and 100 days to mature, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Q2. Can I grow watermelon on the vine in a container?

Yes, you can grow certain varieties of watermelon in containers as long as they have enough room to grow and plenty of sun and water.

Q3. What's the best time of year to plant watermelon on the vine?

Watermelon seeds should be planted in late spring or early summer, once the soil has warmed up to at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q4. How much water do watermelons need?

Watermelons need plenty of water to grow, particularly during hot and dry weather. Aim to provide at least one inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.

Q5. How can I tell when my watermelon is ripe?

There are several signs that your watermelon is ripe, including a brown, dried tendril near the stem, a creamy yellow spot on the bottom of the melon, and a hollow sound when you tap the fruit.

Q6. Do I need to hand-pollinate my watermelon plants?

Watermelon flowers are typically pollinated by bees and other insects, so hand-pollination is not usually necessary unless you have a shortage of pollinators in your area.

Q7. Can I save seeds from my watermelon to plant next year?

Yes, you can save seeds from your watermelon to plant next year. Simply rinse the seeds in water to remove any pulp, then dry them thoroughly before storing in a cool, dry place.

Q8. How do I prevent pests and diseases in my watermelon plants?

To prevent pests and diseases, make sure to keep your watermelon plants healthy and well-watered. Remove any diseased or infested leaves promptly, and consider using organic pest control methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Q9. Can I eat the rind of a watermelon?

Yes, you can eat the rind of a watermelon, although it may be tough and bitter. Consider pickling or stir-frying the rind for a delicious and nutritious treat.

Q10. What's the best way to store watermelon after harvesting?

Watermelons should be stored in a cool, dry place until ready to eat. Once cut, they should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.

Growing watermelon on the vine is a fun and rewarding activity that allows you to enjoy this delicious fruit at its freshest and most flavorful. By selecting the right variety, planting and growing your melons properly, and managing pests and diseases, you can harvest a bountiful crop of juicy, sweet watermelon to share with friends and family. So why not give it a try? You might just discover a new favorite summer pastime.