How Long Does it Take for a Watermelon Plant to Produce?

Watermelons thrive in warm, humid conditions.

Watermelons are among the more difficult crops to grow in the home garden because most require a very long growing season. Gardeners in northern climates can grow them successfully, though, with a few tricks.

Growing Conditions

Watermelon are heat-loving plants that perform poorly in wet, cold soils. In warm conditions (above 80 degrees Fahrenheit), watermelon germinate and produce fruit within 75 to 95 days. Cold weather will slow or halt production altogether. Use row covers, black plastic mulches and drip irrigation to speed harvests in northern climates, advises the University of Illinois Extension's website.

Variety

The time for maturation required depends in part on the watermelon variety, according to Washington State University's website. Some varieties, such as Belle 460, Freedom and Desert King require 103 to 110 days to mature. Sugar Baby takes a whopping 118 days to produce fruit. Yellow Baby, Yellow Doll and Golden Crown need only 70 to 75 days to mature.

Types

Small, personal or ice-box type watermelons take less time to mature than large picnic types, according to Cornell University. Northern gardeners should choose small varieties, or plants labeled fast-maturing.

References

• University of Illinois Extension: Watermelon
• Washington State University Extension: Watermelon Table
• Cornell University Home Gardening: Watermelon

Resources

• Watermelon: Watermelon Lovers