A Special Way to Plant Watermelons THAT WORKS!

How Long Do Mini Watermelons Take to Grow?

If you’re a watermelon lover looking to grow your own compact and adorable mini watermelons, you might be wondering how long do mini watermelons take to grow? This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully cultivate these petite and sweet fruits in your home garden.

What Are Mini Watermelons?

Mini watermelons, also known as personal or individual watermelons, are smaller versions of their larger cousins. These bite-sized watermelons typically weigh between 3 and 8 pounds, making them perfect for single servings or small households. Despite their diminutive size, they pack a flavorful punch, delivering the same refreshing sweetness and juiciness as their full-sized counterparts.

While they share many similarities with regular watermelons, mini watermelons have a few distinct differences. Here’s a quick comparison:

CharacteristicMini WatermelonsRegular Watermelons

Size	3-8 lbs	10-30 lbs
Rind Color	Dark Green to Blackish	Light to Dark Green
Flesh Color	Bright Red, Orange, or Yellow	Bright Red or Pink
Flavor	Intensely Sweet	Sweet
Seed Count	Fewer Seeds	More Seeds

Origins and Varieties

Mini watermelons originated as natural mutations of regular watermelons, and their cultivation has been documented for over a century. Today, there are numerous varieties available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular mini watermelon varieties include Sugar Baby, Golden Midget, Bambino, and Little Baby Flower.

Nutritional Value

In addition to their delightful taste, mini watermelons are a nutritious treat. Like their larger counterparts, they are rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as potassium and lycopene – a powerful antioxidant. Their high water content also makes them a hydrating and low-calorie snack option.

Growing Mini Watermelons: From Seed to Harvest

So, how long do mini watermelons take to grow? The answer depends on various factors, including your climate, soil conditions, and the specific variety you choose to cultivate. On average, mini watermelons have a shorter growing season than regular watermelons, typically ranging from 70 to 90 days from planting to harvest.

Choosing the Right Seeds

The first step in your mini watermelon growing journey is to select high-quality seeds. Look for seeds from reputable suppliers that are suited for your growing zone and climate. Different varieties may have varying maturation times, so be sure to read the seed packet information carefully.

Planting and Germination

Mini watermelons thrive in warm soil and air temperatures, so it’s best to plant the seeds after the last frost date in your area. Prepare a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil bed or raised garden bed, and plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and 12-18 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 5-10 days.

Growth Stages

Once the seeds have germinated, your mini watermelon plants will go through several growth stages:

1. Seedling Stage: The first set of leaves emerges, and the plant establishes its root system.
2. Vining Stage: The plant begins to produce vines and runners, which will spread out in search of space and nutrients.
3. Flowering Stage: Male and female flowers appear on separate nodes along the vines. Pollination is necessary for fruit development.
4. Fruiting Stage: After successful pollination, the watermelon fruits begin to form and grow.

Estimated Time to Maturity

While the exact time to maturity can vary, here’s a general timeline for the key milestones in mini watermelon growth:

1. Germination: 5-10 days
2. Seedling Stage: 2-3 weeks
3. Vining and Flowering: 4-6 weeks
4. Fruit Development: 4-6 weeks
5. Harvest: 70-90 days from planting

Remember, these timeframes are approximate and can be influenced by factors like temperature, sunlight, and soil quality. Warmer climates may result in a slightly faster maturation process.

Caring for Mini Watermelon Plants

Providing the right care and attention to your mini watermelon plants is crucial for achieving a bountiful harvest. Here are some key considerations:

Watering and Fertilizing

Mini watermelon plants require consistent moisture, especially during the fruiting stage. Water the plants deeply, aiming to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

In terms of fertilization, apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at the time of planting, and consider supplementing with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer once the vines begin to run and produce flowers.

Pest and Disease Management

Like any crop, mini watermelons can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Common issues include aphids, cucumber beetles, and fungal diseases like powdery mildew or downy mildew. Implementing organic pest control methods, such as companion planting, row covers, or neem oil, can help keep your plants healthy. In severe cases, you may need to resort to approved chemical pesticides or fungicides.

Pruning and Training

To promote optimal fruit production and air circulation, it’s recommended to prune and train your mini watermelon vines. Remove any excess or overcrowded vines, and guide the main vines along the ground or onto a trellis or support system. This will not only improve fruit development but also prevent diseases caused by poor air flow and moisture buildup.

Harvesting and Storage

As your mini watermelons approach maturity, it’s important to know when and how to harvest them for maximum flavor and shelf life.

Signs of Maturity

Several indicators can help you determine when your mini watermelons are ready for harvesting:

• The underside of the fruit, where it rests on the ground, develops a creamy or yellowish color.
• The tendril closest to the fruit stem turns brown and dries up.
• The rind develops a dull, matte appearance and loses its glossy sheen.
• The fruit produces a hollow sound when tapped lightly.

Harvesting Techniques

When harvesting mini watermelons, it’s crucial to handle them with care to prevent bruising or damage. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the vine, leaving about 2 inches of stem attached. Avoid pulling or twisting the fruit, as this can cause it to tear away from the vine.

Storage and Preservation

Freshly harvested mini watermelons can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer-term storage, consider pickling or freezing the watermelon flesh in airtight containers or freezer bags.

Conclusion

Growing mini watermelons in your home garden can be a rewarding and delicious endeavor. While the exact timeline may vary based on your location and growing conditions, with proper care and attention, you can expect to enjoy the sweet and juicy fruits of your labor within 70-90 days from planting. Embrace the process, follow the guidelines outlined in this article, and soon you’ll be savoring the taste of homegrown mini watermelons straight from your own backyard!