Watermelon, or Citrullus lanatus, is a fruit that is part of the cucurbitaceae family. It is known for its green rind and juicy, sweet, red flesh. That being said, some species also have yellow flesh. Our articles below will teach you how to plant and harvest your very own.
Watermelon grows best in sunny garden spots with well-draining sandy soil. They need plenty of nutrients throughout the growing season to feed the long vines, and like soil that is consistently moist. Plants need to be checked frequently for pests and disease problems.
Watermelon is a flowering plant that is part of the Cucurbitaceae family, but most people know it as the sweet, refreshing melon with red flesh. For optimal growth, you will need the ideal nutrients.
Companion plants are important in gardens. To help ward off insect pests, plant onions, garlic, or chives near your watermelon plants. Aromatic flowers like lavender and marigolds also drive away pests. Flowering ornamentals will attract pollinators, dramatically improving pollination rates.
Watermelon plants grow in very distinct stages in the garden, each with unique characteristics and needs. Seeds germinate within about a week of planting, and sprouts push through the soil surface. Vegetative growth occurs to develop a main vine with several small vines sprouting from it. Male and female flowers appear on the vines, and then, if fertilized fruits develop. The whole process takes about three months.