How Long Does It Take to Grow Watermelons?

How to Plant & Grow Watermelons: Transplants, Seeds, Fertilizer, Soil Prep, Watering – All the Steps

Growing juicy, ripe watermelons is a rewarding experience, but it takes patience and the right conditions. How long does it take to grow watermelons? The answer depends on several factors, but typically, watermelons take 70 to 100 days to reach maturity from the time the seeds are planted.

Watermelon Growth Stages

Watermelons go through several distinct growth stages, each with its own timeline and requirements.

After the seeds are sown, the germination process begins. Watermelon seeds typically sprout within 5 to 10 days under ideal conditions, which include temperatures between 70°F and 90°F (21°C and 32°C) and consistent moisture.

Once the seedlings emerge, the vine growth stage commences. During this phase, the watermelon vines grow rapidly, spreading across the ground or trellis. Vines can reach lengths of 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) or more, depending on the variety. This stage typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks.

Factors Affecting Watermelon Growth Time

While watermelons generally take around 3 to 4 months to reach maturity, several factors can influence the overall growth time.

Climate and temperature play a crucial role. Watermelons thrive in warm, sunny conditions, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Cooler temperatures can slow growth, while excessively hot conditions can cause stress and impact fruit development.

Soil quality and nutrient availability are also important considerations. Watermelons prefer well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Poor soil conditions can stunt growth and delay fruiting.

Proper watering practices are essential for consistent growth. Watermelons require consistent moisture, especially during the flowering and fruit development stages. Inadequate or excessive watering can negatively impact growth and yield.

Typical Watermelon Growth Timeline

While growth times can vary, here is a general timeline for watermelon growth:

The early growth stage, from germination to vine development, typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks.

Flowering and fruit set occur around 6 to 8 weeks after planting. This is when the watermelon fruits begin to develop.

From fruit set to maturation and harvest, it typically takes an additional 6 to 8 weeks. During this stage, the watermelons grow in size and develop their signature sweet flavor.

Signs of Watermelon Ripeness

Knowing when to harvest watermelons is crucial for maximizing flavor and sweetness. Here are some signs to look for:

• The underside of the watermelon, where it rests on the ground, turns from white to creamy yellow or yellow-tan.
• The curly tendril closest to the stem turns brown and dries up.
• The rind develops a dull, creamy appearance instead of a glossy sheen.
• When tapped, a ripe watermelon produces a hollow, dull sound.
• The watermelon feels heavy for its size.

Tips for Faster Watermelon Growth

While watermelons generally take 70 to 100 days to reach maturity, there are some techniques that can help accelerate their growth.

Proper planting techniques, such as starting seeds indoors and transplanting them after the last frost, can give watermelons a head start. Additionally, using black plastic mulch or row covers can help warm the soil and promote faster growth.

Mulching and effective weed control are essential for reducing competition for nutrients and moisture, allowing watermelons to focus their energy on growth and fruit production.

Pruning and thinning practices can also help speed up growth. Removing excess vines and fruits can redirect the plant’s resources to the remaining fruits, resulting in larger, faster-growing watermelons.

Growth StageApproximate Duration

Germination	5 to 10 days
Vine Growth	4 to 6 weeks
Flowering and Fruit Set	6 to 8 weeks after planting
Fruit Maturation and Harvest	Additional 6 to 8 weeks

Conclusion

Growing watermelons is a rewarding experience, but it requires patience and attention to detail. From seed to harvest, watermelons typically take 70 to 100 days to reach maturity. However, factors such as climate, soil quality, and watering practices can influence the growth time. By understanding the growth stages and implementing proper techniques, gardeners can enjoy the sweet rewards of juicy, ripe watermelons in their own backyard.