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Growing watermelons can be a rewarding experience , but waiting for these sweet fruits to mature can experience like an timeless existence . If you ’re eager to savour the juicy goodness of yourhomegrown watermelon soonerrather than later , thiscomprehensive guidewill unveil the technique and strategies for accelerating their growth .
1. Choose the Right Variety
choose the appropriate watermelon form is essential forfaster growth . Look for varieties eff for their former maturity , such as ‘ Sugar Baby ‘ , ‘ Crimson Sweet ‘ , or ‘ Jubilee ’ . These varieties typically take around 60 - 80 day from set to harvest .
2. Prepare the Soil
Watermelons thrive in well - drained , arenaceous loam soilwith a pH level between 6.0 and 6.5 . Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve fertility rate andwater retention . leaven bed are a great option toensure proper drainageand extend the growing season .
3. Start Seeds Indoors
go watermelon seeds indoors 4 - 6 weeks before the last frost allows you to get a point commence on thegrowing process . Plant the seeds in a semen - start admixture and provide plenty of sunlight orartificial lighting . Keep the territory moist but not squashy .
4. Transplant Outdoors
When thewatermelon seedlingshavedeveloped rightful leavesand thesoil temperaturehas reached at least 70 ° F ( 21 ° C ) , it ’s time to transplant them outdoors . Space the plants 3 - 4 feet apart in row that are 6 - 8 feet aside .
5. Mulch and Water Regularly
mulch around the Citrullus vulgaris plants with husk orshredded leaves help retain moisture , suppress weed , andregulate soil temperature . body of water theplants deeplyand regularly , especially during hot and juiceless weather . Avoid overwatering , as this can lead to root rot .
6. Fertilize Appropriately
Fertilize the watermelon vine plants every 2 - 3 calendar week with abalanced fertilizer . Avoid using fertilizers with too much N , as this canpromote excessive vine growthat the expense of yield production .
7. Pollination
Watermelon plant want pollination to produce yield . If you do n’t have bees in your orbit , you could hand - pollenate the bloom bytransferring pollenfrom the male peak to the female flowers .
8. Pruning and Trellising
Pruning the watermelon vines boost fruit production andprevents overcrowd . take away any unaccented ordiseased vine , as well as any vines that are not bring about yield . Trellising the vines aid abide theheavy fruitsand improves air circulation .
9. Monitor for Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for blighter and disease that canaffect watermelon flora , such as aphids , cucumber beetle , andpowdery mildew . Useorganic pest control methodsor consult with a local nursery for recommendations .
10. Harvest at the Right Time
watermelon are ready to harvest when the bottom of the yield hasturned yellowand thetendril closestto the yield has dried up . Gently raise the fruit off the vine and store it in a cool , dry piazza .
Tips for Even Faster Growth
Final Thoughts: Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
By following these techniques and strategies , you’re able to significantly accelerate the growth of yourwatermelon plantsand enjoy the sweet payoff of your Labour sooner than you thought possible . Whether you ’re a veteran gardener or a tiro , these tips will help oneself you unlock thefull potentialof yourwatermelon cropand savor the gamy goodness of homegrown watermelons in no metre .
Top Questions Asked
Q : How can I speed up the sprouting of watermelon vine seeds?A : Soak the seeds inwarm waterfor 12 - 24 hours before set to elevate fast germination . Q : What should I do if mywatermelon plantsare not producing fruit?A : Check forproper pollinationand insure that the plants arereceiving adequate sunlight , water , and nutrients . Q : How do Iprevent powdery mildewon Citrullus vulgaris plants?A : Water the plants at the base to invalidate get the leave wet , asmoisture promotesthe development ofpowdery mould . Use organic fungicides orneem oilfor treatment .