How to Grow Hanging Watermelons

Surprise with the method of Growing watermelon on the terrace with tires

Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety

Not all watermelon varieties are well-suited for hanging cultivation. It’s crucial to select a cultivar that produces smaller, more compact fruits to prevent excessive weight from damaging the vines or support structures. Here’s a comparison of some popular watermelon varieties and their suitability for hanging:

VarietyFruit WeightVine LengthHanging Suitability

Sugar Baby	6-10 lbs	3-5 feet	Excellent
Bush Charleston Gray	10-20 lbs	3-4 feet	Good
Petite Treat	5-8 lbs	4-6 feet	Very Good
Crimson Sweet	15-25 lbs	6-8 feet	Poor
Charleston Gray	20-30 lbs	6-8 feet	Not Recommended

As you can see from the table, smaller varieties like Sugar Baby and Petite Treat are ideal choices for hanging watermelon cultivation due to their compact size and manageable fruit weight.

Sugar Baby Watermelon

The Sugar Baby watermelon is a quintessential choice for hanging gardens. These miniature watermelons typically weigh between 6-10 pounds, making them easy to support on vertical structures. Despite their small size, Sugar Baby watermelons offer a sweet, juicy flavor and a deep red flesh that’s sure to delight.

Bush Watermelon Varieties

Bush watermelon varieties, such as Bush Charleston Gray, are also excellent candidates for hanging cultivation. These compact plants have a natural bush-like growth habit, producing shorter vines and smaller fruits than their traditional counterparts. Examples of suitable bush watermelon varieties include Bush Sugar Baby and Bush Bonanza.

Preparing the Growing Area

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a successful hanging watermelon crop. Here’s a list of essential supplies and equipment you’ll need:

• Watermelon seeds or seedlings
• Well-draining potting mix or garden soil
• Sturdy support structures (trellises, cages, or slings)
• Gardening tools (trowel, pruners, etc.)
• Fertilizer (balanced or high in potassium)
• Garden hose or watering can
• Pest control products (if needed)

Selecting the Right Location

When choosing a spot for your hanging watermelon garden, consider the following factors:

• Sunlight: Watermelons thrive in full sun exposure, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Drainage: Watermelons don’t tolerate soggy soil, so ensure your planting area has excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
• Protection: Locate your garden in an area sheltered from strong winds, which can damage the vines and support structures.

Building a Sturdy Support Structure

Since watermelons can become quite heavy as they mature, a sturdy support system is crucial for hanging cultivation. Consider options like:

• Trellises: Vertical trellises made of wood, metal, or durable netting provide excellent support for watermelon vines.
• Cages: Sturdy wire or plastic cages can be used to contain and support the vines as they grow upward.
• Slings: Hang individual watermelons in sturdy mesh slings or fabric hammocks to take the weight off the vines.

Planting and Care for Growing Hanging Watermelons

Proper planting and ongoing care are essential for a bountiful hanging watermelon harvest.

Watermelons can be direct-sown or transplanted once the soil has warmed to at least 70°F. Space seedlings or seeds 12-18 inches apart, planting them 1-2 inches deep. Thin out seedlings to the strongest plant once they’ve sprouted.

Watering and Fertilizing

Watermelons have high water and nutrient demands, especially during fruit development. Provide consistent moisture by watering deeply, aiming for 1-2 inches of water per week. Apply a balanced fertilizer or one high in potassium every 4-6 weeks to promote healthy growth and fruit production.

Pruning and Training

As the vines grow, regularly train them onto the support structures, using gentle ties or clips to secure them in place. Prune off any excess vines or shoots that are not producing fruits, focusing the plant’s energy on the developing watermelons.

Pest and Disease Management

Like any crop, hanging watermelons are susceptible to various pests and diseases. Proactive monitoring and management are crucial to ensure a healthy harvest. Common issues include:

1. Insect Pests:
   • Aphids
   • Cucumber beetles
   • Squash bugs
   • Squash vine borers
2. Fungal and Bacterial Diseases:
   • Powdery mildew
   • Downy mildew
   • Gummy stem blight
   • Anthracnose

Implement an integrated pest management approach, combining cultural practices (like crop rotation and removing infected plant material), with targeted pesticide applications if necessary. Always follow label instructions carefully and consider organic or biological control options when possible.

Harvesting and Storage

Knowing when to harvest and properly storing your watermelons can ensure you enjoy their peak flavor and extend their shelf life.

Watermelons typically mature 80-100 days after planting, depending on the variety. Look for these signs of ripeness:

• The underside (where the watermelon rests on the ground) develops a creamy or yellow color.
• The curly tendrils closest to the fruit turn brown and dry up.
• The watermelon develops a dull, hollow sound when tapped.

Harvesting Techniques

To harvest hanging watermelons, carefully support the fruit with one hand while using pruners or a sharp knife to sever the stem, leaving 1-2 inches of stem attached. Gently lower the watermelon into a supportive sling or container to avoid damaging it.

Storing and Preserving

Watermelons can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, or refrigerated for up to four weeks. For longer-term preservation, consider pickling, freezing, or making watermelon jam or jelly with your excess harvest.

Conclusion

Growing hanging watermelons is a unique and rewarding gardening experience that allows you to enjoy these refreshing fruits even in small spaces. By selecting the right variety, preparing the growing area, providing proper care, and managing pests and diseases, you can achieve a bountiful and visually stunning hanging watermelon crop. Embrace this space-saving cultivation method and savor the sweet, juicy rewards of your efforts all season long.