Quick notes
Watermelon , a darling summer dainty , may seem like adistant dreamfor those in insensate climates . However , with the right technique and a routine of forbearance , you could enjoy the red-hot sweet of homegrown watermelon even incooler region . This comprehensive pathfinder will allow you with all the essential noesis and tips tosuccessfully develop watermelonin cold climates .
Choosing the Right Variety
The first whole tone ingrowing watermelonin cold climates is selecting a variety that is well - suit to your term . Look for varieties withshorter get season , such as ‘ Sugar Baby ’ or ‘ Moon and Stars ’ . These salmagundi ripen more quickly , allowing them toproduce fruitbefore the insensate conditions lot in .
Preparing the Soil
Watermelon flourish in well - drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 . In insensate climates , where the soil may be enceinte and cold , it is essential to amend the soil withorganic matter , such as compost or manure . This will meliorate drainage and warm the land , creating a morefavorable environmentfor watermelon growth .
Starting Seeds Indoors
Due to the shorter acquire season incold climates , it is commend tostart Citrullus vulgaris seed indoors4 - 6 weeks before the last frost date . Sow the ejaculate in a warm , cheery location , such as a greenhouse or a windowsill withample sun . Keep the soil moist but not soggy .
Transplanting Seedlings
When the seedlings have explicate their first set of true leaves , it is time to transfer them into item-by-item pots . Use a potting admixture specifically designed forstarting seeds , as it is promiscuous and provides good drainage . Harden off theseedlings graduallyby exposing them tooutdoor conditionsfor a few time of day each mean solar day .
Planting Outdoors
Once the dirt has warmed to at least 65 ° F ( 18 ° C ) and the risk of frost has passed , you’re able to transplant thewatermelon seedlings outdoors . Choose asunny locationwith well - run out soiland quad the plants 3 - 4 feet apart . Water the plants deeply after transplanting .
Mulching and Watering
Mulching around the watermelon plants withorganic issue , such as straw or shredded leave of absence , will aid retain moisture , suppress weeds , and regulate grease temperature . piddle theplants regularly , particularly during live , dry weather . piss deeply , allow the water to penetrate the grunge to a depth of at least 12 inches .
Pollination
Watermelons ask pollenation to bring forth yield . In moth-eaten climates , where insect may not be as abundant , you may require to pass - pollenate the flowers . To do this , utilize asmall brushor cotton swab totransfer pollenfrom the male flowers to the female flowers .
Fertilizing
fertilise thewatermelon plantsevery 2 - 3 weeks with abalanced fertiliser . Avoid over - fertilizing , as this can direct to overweening vine growing and foreshorten yield production .
Pest and Disease Control
watermelon are susceptible to various pests and disease , including aphids , cucumber beetle , and powdery mould . Monitor yourplants regularlyfor sign of pest and diseases and plow them promptly with organic orchemical controlsas necessitate .
Harvesting
watermelon are quick to glean when they arefully matureand have a recondite , resonant soundwhen tapped . apply a sharp knife to burn the watermelon vine from the vine , leave a short stem sequester . stack away the watermelon in a cool , dry placefor up to 2 weeks .
Beyond Conclusion: Embracing the Sweetness of Homegrown Watermelon
Growing watermelon in stale mood may require a bit of extra sweat , but the sweet reward of homegrown watermelon is well deserving it . By following thetechniques outlinedin this guide , you could enjoy the juicy , tonic taste perception of Citrullus vulgaris even in cool region . adopt the challenge and experience the joy of harvesting your own delicious watermelons .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : Can Igrow watermelonin a nursery in a cold-blooded climate?A : Yes , greenhouses can provide a warm andcontrolled environmentfor develop watermelon incold climates . However , it is all-important to see to it proper ventilation toprevent diseaseand observe optimal growing conditions . Q : How can I protect mywatermelon plantsfrom frost?A : If frost is ask , cover thewatermelon plantswith afloating row coverorplastic sheeting . Remove the cover charge during the Clarence Day when temperature rise . Q : What are somecommon problemswhengrowing watermelonin inhuman climates?A : Common problems let in poor germination due tocold soil , stunt outgrowth due to lack of heat , andblossom end molder dueto Ca inadequacy .
