Growing Watermelon: Simple Steps for Sweet Summer Harvests

Choosing the Perfect Watermelon Variety

Back in my early gardening days, I underestimated the importance of choosing the right watermelon variety. One overly ambitious summer, I planted "Black Diamond" melons in pots—big mistake.

These beasts often reach 30 to 50 pounds (13 to 22 kg), and my balcony wasn't enthusiastic about supporting their ambitions.

Now, before planting, I carefully match the watermelon variety to the available space and growing season. Smaller spaces thrive with varieties like Sugar Baby or Golden Midget, which mature faster and occupy less real estate.

Finding the Ideal Location for Growing Watermelon

Watermelons adore sun and heat—the more, the better. I once tried planting them in partial shade, resulting in sad, undersized fruit that even local raccoons ignored.

Pick a spot with 8 or more hours of direct sunlight daily and loose, fertile soil enriched with compost. Good drainage matters immensely—watermelons despise soggy feet.

Did you know? Optimal soil temperature for watermelon seeds ranges between 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Planting too early in chilly soil spells doom for your seedlings.

Preparing the Soil

A few weeks before planting, I like to dig deep, turning over about 12 inches (30 cm) of soil. I toss in generous amounts of compost and aged manure—watermelons feast heavily on nutrients.

For gardeners dealing with heavy clay soil, adding coarse sand or perlite boosts drainage and improves soil texture dramatically. Trust me; your melons will thank you.

How to Plant Watermelon Seeds or Seedlings

Starting from Seed

Sow seeds 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep directly in the prepared soil after the last frost danger passes and when nighttime temperatures consistently sit above 50°F (10°C). Space hills about 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) apart, giving vines plenty of room to ramble.

Planting Seedlings

If your climate offers a shorter growing season, like mine here in northern Vermont, starting watermelon indoors grants a necessary head start. Four weeks before transplanting, sow seeds in biodegradable pots, minimizing root disturbance later.

Transplant seedlings when they possess two to three true leaves, ensuring roots remain undisturbed. Set plants carefully, spacing at least 3 feet (1 meter) apart.

Watermelon Care and Maintenance

Consistent watering deeply affects watermelon quality. Aim for around 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of water per week—either rainfall or irrigation—and always water at the base to prevent fungal issues.

Once fruits appear, lessen watering slightly to encourage sweetness. Overwatering at this stage dilutes flavor significantly.

• Mulch generously: This reduces weeds, retains moisture, and protects developing fruit.
• Feed modestly: A balanced organic fertilizer applied once monthly provides necessary nutrients without causing excessive vine growth.

Identifying Ripe Watermelons

The most common gardening question I receive about growing watermelon: "How do you know when they're ready?" I've tapped, sniffed, and eyeballed numerous melons—the simplest method remains checking the underside.

A ripe watermelon shows a creamy yellow spot at the base (field spot), indicating sweet, juicy readiness. Additionally, dried, brown tendrils near the fruit hint strongly at ripeness.

Patience becomes your greatest ally here—harvesting premature melons guarantees watery disappointment.

Growing watermelon is part patience, part sense of adventure. The reward depends on the basics: deep, fertile soil, steady sun, consistent watering, and plenty of room for sprawling vines. Choose quality seeds, plant thoughtfully, and stay watchful for pests. Do it right, and you'll slice into a sweet, juicy melon you've grown yourself—an experience worth waiting for.