Quick notes
Watermelons , with theirrefreshing sweetnessandjuicy flesh , are a summer basic . But who says you need land of land to bask thesedelicious fruits ? With a little know - how and some cleverness , you could turn luscious Citrullus vulgaris right in the comfort of your own home , even in a limited place . This comprehensive scout will walk you through every step of the Citrullus vulgaris - growing process in pots , from seed choice to harvest .
Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety
Not allwatermelon varietiesare accommodate for container horticulture . choose for compact , bush - eccentric varieties that arespecifically bredfor growing in pots . Some recommended option include :
Selecting a Suitable Pot
The size of the sess you choose will bet on the variety of watermelon you ’re growing . Generally , a muckle with a diameter of at least 18 - 24 inches and a depth of 12 - 18 inches is recommended . Choose a toilet withdrainage holesto prevent waterlogging .
Preparing the Soil
Watermelons thrive in well - drain , fertile grime . Use a potting mixture specifically word for vegetables or make your own by combining adequate parts compost , peat moss , and perlite . Amend the stain with a slow - sacking fertilizer to provide nutrients throughout the grow season .
Planting the Seeds
scratch seeds indoors 4 - 6 week before the last frost . Sow seeds 1 column inch deep inindividual peat pots filledwith seed begin mix . Keep the soil moist andprovide rich lightness . Once seedlings have developed their first hardening of true leave , transplant them into the prepared pot .
Watering and Feeding
Watermelons have adeep root system , so they necessitate regular watering . Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out beforewatering deeply . Overwatering can lead toroot rot . Fertilize the plants every 2 - 3 week with a balanced liquid fertilizer .
Trellising and Support
Aswatermelon vines grow , they will take support to prevent them from sprawling on the ground . Install a treillage or stakes to point thevines vertically . Trellising alsoimproves air circulationand abridge the risk of infection of disease .
Pollination
watermelon vine are monoicous , meaning they have both male andfemale flowerson the same plant . However , for yield to set , cross - pollenation is necessary . Gently rock the vine to encourage pollination or practice a small skirmish to transpose pollen from male to female blossom .
Harvesting
Watermelons are quick to harvest when they are heavy , have adull thudwhen tapped , and the tendril at the base of thefruit turns brownand dry . disregard the watermelon vine from the vine using a sharp knife .
Troubleshooting
Blossom End Rot : This is because of acalcium want . Water more on a regular basis andadd calciumto the soil . Powdery Mildew : Thisfungal diseasecauses a clean powdery cake on folio . utilise a antifungal or take touch foliage . Aphids : These pocket-sized , green insectscandamage leaves . Spray the plants withinsecticidal soapor neem oil .
Information You Need to Know
Q : Can Igrow watermelonin a hanging basket?A : Yes , but choose adwarf varietyand expend a large , sturdy basketwith estimable drainage . Q : How much sunlight do watermelon need?A : Watermelons need at least 6 hour ofdirect sunlightper day . Q : Can Igrow watermelonsin a cold climate?A : Yes , but you will demand tostart seeds indoorsand protect the plant from hoarfrost .
