Soil
Rich soil with plenty of compost added. Often grown in widely spaced enriched hills, or in well-aged compost heaps that include some soil.
Position
Full sun.
Frost tolerant
No.
Feeding
After plants set fruit, feed twice, at two week intervals, with a water soluble plant food.
Companions
Beans, Corn, Radish and Potatoes.
Spacing
Single Plants: 2′ 11″ (90cm) each way (minimum)
Rows: 2′ 11″ (90cm) with 2′ 11″ (90cm) row gap (minimum)
Sow and Plant
Sow seeds 1 inch deep in rows, or in hills spaced 6 feet apart. After 2 weeks, thin to 2 plants per hill.
Notes
Fruit size varies with variety. Small “icebox” watermelons mature quickly and take up less space compared to huge watermelons.
Harvesting
Ripe watermelons sound deep and resonant when thumped, and the curled tendril opposite the melon should be brown. Wipe clean and store indoors.
Troubleshooting
Control weeds early and then mulch to avoid trampling the vines after fruits have set.
