Watermelon Growing Guide
Citrullus lanatus
Crop Rotation Group
Cucurbits (Squash family) ●
Soil
Rich soil with plenty of compost added. Often grown in widely spaced enriched mounds, or in well-aged compost heaps that include some soil.
Position
Full sun.
Frost tolerant
No.
Feeding
After plants set fruit, feed twice, at two week intervals, with a water soluble plant food.
Spacing
Single Plants: 90cm (2' 11") each way (minimum)
Rows: 90cm (2' 11") with 90cm (2' 11") row gap (minimum)
Sow and Plant
Sow seeds 1 inch deep in rows, or on mounds spaced 6 feet apart. After 2 weeks, thin to 2 plants per mound.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
Notes
Fruit size varies with variety. Small "icebox" watermelons mature quickly and take up less space compared to huge watermelons.
Harvesting
Ripe watermelons sound deep and resonant when thumped, and the curled tendril opposite the melon should be brown. Wipe clean and store indoors.
Troubleshooting
Control weeds early and then mulch to avoid trampling the vines after fruits have set.
Planting and Harvesting Calendar
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Pests which Affect Watermelon
Plant Diseases which Affect Watermelon