How to Grow Giant Watermelons
What could be more delicious on a hot summer day than a fresh, juicy watermelon? If you have enough garden space, you can grow your own watermelon. It's easy and fun, and a great way to introduce kids to horticulture. Growing a giant melon will take just a bit of extra care.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Prepare the soil for planting. A giant watermelon will need enough space to grow at least 12 feet in all directions. Rake out stones and work the soil with a rake or hoe until smooth. Rake in about an inch of natural fertilizer such as manure, leaf mold or compost.
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2
Plant watermelon seeds when the soil is warm and all danger of frost is past. Plant four or five seeds one inch deep in hills spaced 6 feet apart. Once seedlings are established, thin each hill to the three healthiest plants. This will allow watermelons to grow larger because they don't have to compete for water or nutrients.
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3
Fertilize the plant with a good general-purpose fertilizer or an organic fertilizer such as compost or manure every three to four weeks, until harvest.
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4
Pull or hoe weeds around the plants often, so that the water and nutrients in the soil will go to produce a giant watermelon instead of weeds.
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5
Water regularly.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Last frost dates vary widely. To determine the last frost date in your area, call your state's university extension agent or check the website listed in the 'Resources' section below.
The first blossoms will usually drop off. Don't worry, those are the males and they have probably already pollinated the female blossoms.
Mulching around the plant will help to minimize weeds and retain soil moisture.
Watermelons are susceptible to frost in the spring and fall. If frost is in the weather forecast, cover plants with plastic.
Make sure the planting area is in full sun with well-drained soil.
