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 7a 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 21°C and 35°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 60 - 75 cm 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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16 Jul 20, Jodie (USA - Zone 9b climate)
My grandkids want to grow watermelon with the seeds from a fresh watermelon. It's mid July and we're in zone 9b in the Arizona desert. Thank you in advance. Happy planting!
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23 Jul 20, colleen (USA - Zone 10b climate)
Fun project! Be aware that seeds might be sterile from a store-bought melon (and likely won't be true to seed). But worth a shot for the surprise factor, I think. They should try the paper towel sprouting method to test viability. If seeds sprout, get them in the ground by August and there should still be time for fruits. They'll need plenty of water in hot weather (mulch helps too).
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11 Jul 20, Cathy Mallen (USA - Zone 10a climate)
I am wondering what watermelon will grow in zone 10 (the coastal portion) Thank you.
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02 Dec 20, Atlantic (USA - Zone 10a climate)
I planted my seedlings from Walmart seeds in October. 50¢ seeds! Charleston Grey watermelon, think seed spitting as a child, has now gifted me 3 melons that I can see (12.01.20). Ps 50¢ package. Bye from Zone10A!
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16 Apr 20, Ms Wanderful (USA - Zone 9a climate)
What are the best melons to plant in zone 9a & 9b? And when in the season. Can I plant a melon in a container?
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23 Nov 18, Joyce (USA - Zone 9b climate)
Do you have to have a male and female watermelon together for them to bear
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05 Jan 19, Petra (USA - Zone 9a climate)
Watermelon like all other melons, squash (incl. zucchinis) and pumpkins produce both male and female flowers. So only one is needed. However i always plant two or more in case one fizzles out.
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02 Sep 18, Murray freeman (Canada - Zone 6a Temperate Warm Summer climate)
What are sweetest watermelon that can be grown in 6a
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18 Aug 18, Tammy (USA - Zone 10a climate)
What are the best garden layouts for melons tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers? Not sure what can grow next to what best
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12 Mar 18, DANIEL Etheridge (USA - Zone 8b climate)
when should i plant watermelon in zone 8b apple valley California 92308
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Showing 31 - 40 of 47 comments
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Fun project! Be aware that seeds might be sterile from a store-bought melon (and likely won't be true to seed). But worth a shot for the surprise factor, I think. They should try the paper towel sprouting method to test viability. If seeds sprout, get them in the ground by August and there should still be time for fruits. They'll need plenty of water in hot weather (mulch helps too).

- colleen

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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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