How to Prune Watermelon Plants
Watermelons are a favorite summertime and picnic fruit. These large melons can grow on ground-hugging vines and weigh as much as 200 lbs. Watermelon "bushes," on the other hand, grow smaller, rounded melons. Gardens with lots of space can support the vines, but smaller gardens are better suited for watermelon bushes. Regardless of which kind of watermelon plant you grow, you'll find that it's like any other plant in that it needs careful pruning and maintenance to keep it healthy and producing fruit. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Plant watermelon seeds after the last frost. Plants will sprout after 80 to 100 days.
-
2
Use plenty of manure, compost and nitrogen-rich fertilizer before the watermelon plants start to flower. Once flowers form, switch to phosphorous and potassium fertilizers.
-
-
3
Water your watermelon plant generously and often. Watermelons are hungry, thirsty plants.
-
4
Watch the watermelon plant's leaves for pests and disease. Use the shears to cut away any yellow, dead, diseased or infested leaves. Cut these leaves or shoots at the joint where they connect to the main stem.
-
5
Cut away any secondary vines or branches that appear weak or aren't producing flowers or fruit.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Most local fall festivals include watermelon contests; enter your best specimen to win a prize.
Watermelon plants are highly susceptible to parasites and diseases. Frost will kill watermelon plants.
