Watermelon

Watermelon Care

Citrullus Lanatus

What is the plant

Sink into the refreshing sweetness of Watermelons, the most vibrant and juicy summer treat. When tasting the red, juicy flesh on a hot day, you're not just savoring a delightful fruit but indulging in a taste of sun-soaked sweetness. Let's explore the secrets of growing and caring for this iconic symbol of summer so you can enjoy the ultimate garden-to-table experience.

Watermelon, scientifically known as Citrullus lanatus, is a sprawling vine plant that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. Depending on the seed variety, the vines can grow up to 10-12 feet (3-3.5 meters) long. Originating from tropical Africa, Watermelons are widely grown for their fruits. Varying in size, Watermelon fruits range from tiny-small to large, classic Watermelons weighing up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) or more. Their green, mottled peel covers juicy, pink, red, or yellow flesh, depending on the variety. Commonly available types include the classic red-fleshed and the refreshing yellow-fleshed fruits with seeds.

humidity

Normal

lighting

Full Sun

temperature

27°C - 29°C

hardiness zone

114 - 11

difficulty

Medium

hibernation

Cold Period

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Water the newly planted Watermelons deeply and consistently, providing about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of water per week during the spring and summer. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not soggy. Imagine you will be drinking that water later when consuming the mouth-watering fruit! Water at the base of the plants in the morning to allow foliage to dry before evening, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
Container
It’s best to grow Watermelons in the garden or in an open field due to their sprawling growing habit. However, if you have limited space, you can use large containers or raised garden beds with a minimum volume of 5 gallons (19 liters).
Fun fact
Did you know that Watermelons are over 90% water, making them one of the best hydrating choices during scorching summer months?