Growing Watermelon

Cucurbitaceae c. lanatus : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
      S S              
        T T            
        P P            

(Best months for growing Watermelon in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 70°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 24 - 30 inches apart
  • Harvest in 12-17 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Sweetcorn, Sunflowers
  • Avoid growing close to: Potatoes

Your comments and tips

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02 Aug 21, Thembisile (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Where can I buy watermelon seeds? I'm in Swaziland. Thanks
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01 Mar 24, Gagu (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
You can buy seeds at SAS in Manzini,Nami ngiwatsenge khona
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03 Nov 23, Bee-Pie (South Africa - Humid sub-tropical climate)
Try www.livingseeds.co.za
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19 Aug 21, Dipolelo (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
I kept few seeds from a watermelon I enjoyed in January. I'm going to plant them next month. I'm so looking forward. I'm in GP.
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06 Aug 21, Anon (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
try an agricultural shop.
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20 Jun 21, NSyed (USA - Zone 10a climate)
Is July too late to plant or transplant? Or should I wait for August. Wanted to get a plant or seeds as a late Father's day gift but thought I should ask. It can always get a birthday present in August
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23 Jun 21, (USA - Zone 10a climate)
Probably too late.
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02 Jun 21, Val Tanguilig (Australia - tropical climate)
What varieties of water melons are best for winter growing at Carnarvon area, Western Australia? Thanks heaps!
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09 Mar 21, Sonke (South Africa - Humid sub-tropical climate)
Is it possible to plant or sow seeds in my region now in March ,Humid subtropical region..
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10 Mar 21, (South Africa - Humid sub-tropical climate)
Check the monthly planting guide here. Better to plant in the spring.
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Showing 61 - 70 of 343 comments
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Watermelons are like pumpkins and do well with plenty of manure and water. Before you plant them dig a hole as deep as you can without going into the hard clay. Put some old newspapers or denim jeans in the bottom of the hole and then add as much old rotted animal manure and household scraps into the hole. Cover the hole in the the topsoil leaving a mound. When it is time to plant the seeds in the mound and give them a good watering. Your watermelons will grow well and the newspaper or old jeans will help hold water.

- John

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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