Watermelon is a delicious and refreshing fruit that is widely popular during the summer season. However, many people are unaware of the different stages of growing watermelons, which can affect their taste and quality. From selecting the right seeds to harvesting at the perfect time, several factors can impact the growth and development of watermelons.

This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the watermelon growing stages, from seed selection to harvesting. It will offer tips and tricks to help you grow the tastiest watermelons possible.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, this guide will provide all the information you need to grow your juicy and delicious watermelons.

Watermelons

Watermelons are large, juicy fruits that are a popular summer staple worldwide. They belong to the Cucurbitaceae family, including cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash. Watermelons are believed to have originated in Africa and were later introduced to other parts of the world.

They are a good source of hydration, as they comprise 92% water and are rich in vitamins C, A, and potassium. There are many varieties of watermelons, each with unique characteristics in terms of size, shape, color, and taste. Watermelons are a delicious and nutritious addition to any summer menu, whether enjoyed as a snack, in a salad, or as a refreshing drink.

How Long Does It Take To Grow Watermelons?

The time it takes to grow watermelons can vary depending on several factors, including the variety of watermelons, the growing conditions, and the desired size of the fruit. On average, it takes about 80-100 days for watermelons to reach maturity and be ready for harvesting.

The growing process for watermelons typically starts with the planting of seeds. Depending on the climate and growing conditions, seeds can be planted directly in the soil or started indoors and transplanted later. Once planted, watermelon seeds typically germinate for about 7-10 days and begin to sprout.

As the watermelon plants continue to grow, they will go through several stages of development. During the first few weeks, the plants will focus on establishing a strong root system and developing their leaves. As they mature, they will begin to produce flowers, eventually leading to the fruit’s growth.

Once the watermelons start to form, they can take 30-50 days to reach their full size, depending on the variety. As they ripen, the watermelons will change color, become heavier, and develop a hollow sound when tapped.

In summary, the time it takes to grow watermelons can range from 80-100 days, depending on various factors. However, with proper care and attention, gardeners can ensure that their watermelons reach their full potential and are ready for harvest in a timely manner.

The 9 Watermelon Growing Stages

Growing watermelons involves several stages, each important for producing healthy and delicious fruit. Here are the 9 stages of watermelon growth:

1. Seed Selection: The right seeds are essential for a successful watermelon harvest. Make sure to select seeds that are adapted to your climate and soil conditions.
2. Seed Planting: Watermelon seeds can be planted directly in the soil or started indoors and transplanted later. Be sure to plant them in an area with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.
3. Germination: Watermelon seeds typically germinate within 7-10 days, after which seedlings will begin to emerge.
4. Seedling Care: Once the seedlings emerge, they should be kept moist and protected from pests and harsh weather conditions.
5. Vine Growth: As the seedlings grow, they will develop vines that will spread over a large area. These vines must be supported and trained to grow in the desired direction.
6. Flowering: Watermelon plants will begin to produce flowers, which are essential for pollination and fruit development.
7. Fruit Formation: After pollination, the watermelon fruits will begin to form and grow. Monitoring their growth and ensuring they get enough water and nutrients is important.
8. Ripening: As the watermelons mature, they will change color, become heavier, and develop a hollow sound when tapped. This is a sign that they are ripe and ready to be harvested.
9. Harvesting: Watermelons should be harvested right to ensure maximum sweetness and flavor. They should be cut from the vine using a sharp knife, leaving a small stem attached to the fruit.

How To Grow Watermelons?

Growing watermelons can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Here are some general steps to follow when growing watermelons:

1. Choose the right variety: Select a watermelon variety that is well-suited for your climate and growing conditions.
2. Prepare the soil: Watermelons need well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by adding compost or aged manure to improve its nutrient content.
3. Plant the seeds: Plant watermelon seeds directly in the soil or start them indoors and transplant them later. Plant the seeds in hills or mounds, spacing them 6-10 feet apart.
4. Provide proper care: Watermelons need regular watering and fertilization to grow properly. Be sure to water them deeply and frequently, especially during dry spells. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks.
5. Train the vines: Watermelon vines can become long and unruly, so training them to grow in the desired direction is important. Use trellises, stakes, or netting to support the vines and keep them off the ground.
6. Monitor for pests and diseases: Watermelons can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, so it’s important to monitor the plants regularly and take action if any problems arise.
7. Harvest at the right time: Watermelons should be harvested when fully ripe and have a hollow sound when tapped. Cut the fruit from the vine using a sharp knife, leaving a small stem attached to the fruit.

Following these steps, you can grow your own delicious and juicy watermelons at home.

Common Issues With Watermelons?

Watermelons are susceptible to several common issues affecting their growth and yield. Here are some of the most common problems that gardeners may encounter when growing watermelons:

1. Poor fruit set: Watermelon plants require pollination to produce fruit, and poor pollination can result in a low fruit set. To improve pollination, gardeners can hand-pollinate the flowers or attract pollinators.
2. Blossom-end rot: This is a common disorder affecting watermelon plants’ fruit. It is caused by a calcium deficiency in the plant, which can be corrected by adding calcium to the soil or using a calcium-rich fertilizer.
3. Fungal diseases: Watermelons are susceptible to several fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, downy mildew, and anthracnose. These diseases can cause leaf spotting, yellowing, and fruit rot. Gardeners should avoid overhead watering, provide good air circulation, and use disease-resistant varieties to prevent fungal diseases.
4. Insect pests: Watermelons can be attacked by various insect pests, including aphids, cucumber beetles, and squash bugs. These pests can cause leaf damage, stunted growth, and reduced yield. To control insect pests, gardeners can use insecticidal soaps or organic insecticides.
5. Overwatering: Watermelon plants require consistent moisture, but overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems. Gardeners should water watermelon plants deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.

By monitoring these common issues and taking appropriate action, gardeners can grow healthy and productive watermelon plants.

Watermelon Plants: Diseases and Pests

Watermelon plants are susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect their growth and yield. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect watermelon plants:

Diseases:

1. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white or grayish powder on the leaves and can cause stunted growth and reduced yield. Gardeners should avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew.
2. Downy mildew: This fungal disease appears as yellow spots on the leaves and can cause premature defoliation and reduced yield. Gardeners should avoid overhead watering and plant disease-resistant varieties to prevent downy mildew.
3. Anthracnose: This fungal disease appears as dark leaf lesions and can cause fruit rot. To prevent anthracnose, gardeners should avoid overhead watering and plant disease-resistant varieties.
4. Fusarium wilt: This fungal disease causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves and can cause the plant to die. To prevent fusarium wilt, gardeners should plant disease-resistant varieties and rotate crops.

Pests:

1. Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant sap and can cause stunted growth and reduced yield. To control aphids, gardeners can use insecticidal soap or insecticides.
2. Cucumber beetles: These beetles feed on the leaves and fruit of the plant and can transmit bacterial wilt. To control cucumber beetles, gardeners can use row covers or insecticides.
3. Squash bugs: These bugs feed on the leaves and fruit of the plant and can cause wilting and reduced yield. To control squash bugs, gardeners can handpick them or use insecticides.

By monitoring these common diseases and pests and taking appropriate action, gardeners can grow healthy and productive watermelon plants. Additionally, using disease-resistant varieties and implementing good cultural practices can help prevent these problems from occurring in the first place.

What Is The Average Weight Of A Watermelon?

The average weight of a watermelon can vary depending on the variety, growing conditions, and other factors. However, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the average weight of a watermelon is 20 pounds (9.07 kg). Some watermelons weigh as little as a few pounds, while others weigh over 100 pounds. The largest weighed over 350 pounds!

How Can You Differentiate Between A Green And A Ripe Watermelon?

Differentiating between a green and a ripe watermelon can be challenging, but here are some tips to help you tell the difference:

1. Check the color: Ripe watermelons have a deep green color and a dull surface. Green watermelons, on the other hand, have a brighter, shinier appearance.
2. Look for the field spot: The field spot is the watermelon area that rested on the ground during growing. Ripe watermelons have a creamy yellow or orange field spot, while green watermelons have a white or light green field spot.
3. Tap the watermelon: Ripe watermelons have a deep, hollow sound when tapped. Green watermelons have a higher-pitched sound.
4. Check the skin texture: Ripe watermelons have a slightly rough, pebbly texture on the skin, while green watermelons have a smooth texture.
5. Look for sugar spots: Sugar spots are small, shiny spots on the watermelon’s surface that indicate high sugar content. Ripe watermelons have more sugar spots than green watermelons.

By using these tips, you can increase your chances of selecting a ripe and delicious watermelon.

Conclusion

Growing watermelons can be a fun and rewarding experience for gardeners of all levels. Gardeners can produce healthy and productive watermelon plants by following the nine stages of watermelon growth, implementing good cultural practices, and taking steps to prevent common diseases and pests.

When selecting watermelons for consumption, looking for signs of ripeness, such as color, field spot, sound, texture, and sugar spots, is important. With these tips in mind, gardeners and consumers alike can enjoy watermelon’s sweet and refreshing taste all season long.