Saturday, March 5, 2016

Planting watermelon

Watermelon varieties are separated by seeded and seedless, types, then by rind color, shape, size and flesh color. There are at least 1000 named watermelon varieties, some of these originating 50-80 years ago still planted.

Watermelons prefer fertile sandy loam, near neutral pH (classified as ‘tolerant’ to soil acidity) but will also grow in a wide range of well-drained soils. Sandy riverbanks are ideal.

Watermelon vines need lots of space. Plant seeds one inch deep in hills spaced 6 feet apart. Make rows 7 to 10 feet apart. After the seedlings start sprouting, it is a good idea to thin them to about three plants per hills.

In common with the other Cucurbits, watermelons benefit from manure and compost. Inorganic fertilizer, particularly those that are high in phosphorus, are also often applied.
Planting watermelon

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