Watermelon Sugar Baby

Climate and Seasonal Timing

• Temperature Requirements: Watermelons require temperatures above 20°C for germination and optimal growth. Ideal growing temperatures range between 21°C and 35°C.
• Planting Seasons: See climate guides on product description.
• Frost Sensitivity: Ensure all threat of frost has passed before planting. Use protective covers if unexpected cold snaps occur.

Site Selection and Soil Preparation

• Sunlight: Choose a site with full sun exposure. Watermelons require at least 8-10 hours of sunlight daily.
• Soil Type: Prefer sandy loam that is rich in organic matter. Heavy clay soils can be amended with compost or sand to improve drainage.
• Soil pH: Maintain a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Conduct soil tests and amend soil with lime if the pH is too low.

Planting Techniques

• Direct Seeding vs. Transplanting: Direct seed watermelons in the ground or start indoors and transplant. Transplanting can give plants an early start.
• Spacing: Space mounds about 75 cm apart.
• Isolation from Wind and Weeds: Use windbreaks or plant near natural barriers. Employ mulch to suppress weeds.

Watering and Irrigation

• Initial Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during germination and initial growth.
• Drip Irrigation: Use drip irrigation to deliver consistent moisture and minimize fungal diseases associated with overhead watering.
• Reduced Watering at Fruit Maturation: Gradually decrease watering as fruits start to mature to concentrate sugars and improve sweetness.

Fertilisation and Nutrient Management

• Initial Fertilisation: At planting, use a balanced slow-release fertiliser with emphasis on potassium for fruit development.
• Supplemental Feeding: Apply a side dressing of compost or additional fertiliser throughout the growing season, focusing on nitrogen during vine growth, and phosphorus and potassium when fruits start to develop.

Pest and Disease Control

• Common Pests: Monitor for aphids, cucumber beetles, and cutworms. Utilize organic pesticides or companion plants for natural deterrents.
• Diseases: Practice crop rotation to reduce fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Use resistant varieties when available. Ensure proper airflow and sunlight penetration by pruning leaves if necessary.

Companion Planting

• Beneficial Companions:

• Marigolds: Deter nematodes with their strong scent.
• Radishes: Protect against cucumber beetles and enhance soil health.
• Corn: Acts as a natural windbreak and provides shade for younger plants.

Avoid Planting With:

• Potatoes: They compete for nutrients and attract similar pests.
• Other Cucurbits: Avoid planting near cucumbers and zucchinis to prevent cross-attraction of pests and diseases.

Harvesting

• Timeframe: Typically, watermelons are ready to harvest about 80 days after planting, depending on the variety.
• Indicators of Ripeness: The watermelon should have a hollow sound when tapped, the underside will turn a creamy yellow, and the tendril near the fruit stem will dry out.