Watermelon is one of the most beloved summer berries in the world. Its juicy flesh and sweet taste make it an ideal treat on hot days.
Growing watermelons is a fun and rewarding activity that anyone can do in their own backyard.
To please yourself and your loved ones with the most delicious harvest, you need to know several important secrets, says Anastasia Kovrizhnykh .
Today we will take a detailed look at the main nuances of growing watermelons - from choosing a variety and planting to caring for and harvesting.
We are sure that after reading this you will be able to grow watermelons worthy of prizes at exhibitions. Let's go!
Choosing the right variety
First of all, we decide on the type of watermelon. Today, there are many varieties - from sweet large-fruited to compact dessert ones. When choosing, we consider:
- Length of growing season - early maturing varieties are better suited to regions with short summers
- Disease resistance is an important factor for beginners
- The size and weight of the fruit is from half a kilo to 15-20 kg.
- Taste qualities - sweetness, juiciness, aroma
The best option for beginners is mid-season hybrids weighing 2-4 kg. They combine good taste and friendly shoots.
Landing Features
Planting is an important stage on which the future harvest depends. We observe the following rules:
- Timing. We plant seedlings in the ground after all frosts have passed. Optimally, the end of May.
- Place. Choose warm sunny areas, protected from the wind. Light, fertile soils without stagnant moisture are preferable.
- Planting scheme. For large-fruited varieties - 2 x 3 m, for small-fruited - 1.5 x 2 m. This will provide access to sun and air.
- Planting hole. Size - 40 x 40 x 40 cm. We add humus, compost, wood ash - for fertility.
- Watering. Water the planting hole generously 2-3 hours before planting the seedlings.
By following these recommendations, we will provide watermelons with comfortable conditions for growth.
Caring for plantings
Quality care is the key to a bountiful watermelon harvest. Key points:
- Watering. Provide regular watering. On hot days - daily under the root. It is optimal to use drip irrigation.
- Top dressing. We apply nitrogen and potassium fertilizers every 2-3 weeks. This stimulates the growth of tops and fruit set.
- Stepsoning. We remove all the stepsons, leaving 1-2 ovaries on the plant. This will allow you to collect large sweet fruits.
- Mulching. It is recommended to mulch the tree trunks with humus or straw. This retains moisture and prevents weed growth.
- Protection from pests and diseases. We carry out preventive treatments against aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew.
With proper care, watermelons will delight us with their juicy, aromatic fruits.
Harvesting and storage
- Determining ripeness. A ripe watermelon has a bright yellow spot on its side. The fruit should make a distinctive ringing sound when tapped.
- Fruit picking. Carefully cut off the stalk with pruning shears, leaving a small stump.
- Transportation. We carry watermelons in a warm place, without sharp jolts and blows, so as not to damage them.
- Storage. Cut off the stems and keep the fruits in a cool place for no more than 2 weeks. Ideal conditions: temperature 10-15°C, humidity 90-95%.
By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious desserts straight from the garden and preserve the aromatic fruits until the next season. Grow and enjoy the excellent taste of your own watermelons!
Previously, we reported on which plants should not be planted near the house .
Expert: Anastasia Kovrizhnykh
