How to Grow Seedless Watermelon: A Comprehensive Guide

How do you Plant a “Seedless” Watermelon??? | MD F&H

Choosing the Right Seedless Watermelon Variety

Selecting the appropriate seedless watermelon variety is crucial for a successful harvest. There are several factors to consider when choosing a variety, such as climate, growing season length, disease resistance, and personal preferences. To help you make an informed decision, here’s an overview of some popular seedless watermelon varieties and their characteristics:

VarietyMaturity (Days)Fruit Weight (lbs)Rind ColorFlesh ColorDisease Resistance

Sugar Baby	75-85	8-12	Dark Green	Deep Red	Anthracnose, Fusarium Wilt
Millennium	90-100	16-20	Striped	Crisp Red	Anthracnose, Fusarium Wilt
Royal Sweet	85-95	15-18	Light Green	Sweet Red	Anthracnose, Fusarium Wilt
Crimson Sweet	90-100	16-22	Light Green	Bright Red	Anthracnose, Fusarium Wilt

Popular Seedless Watermelon Varieties

• Sugar Baby: This compact variety is perfect for smaller gardens and produces round, dark green watermelons weighing 8-12 pounds. The deep red flesh is sweet and juicy, making it a popular choice for home gardeners.
• Millennium: With its ability to produce large, striped watermelons weighing 16-20 pounds, Millennium is a favorite among commercial growers. The crisp red flesh and high disease resistance make it a reliable choice.
• Royal Sweet: Known for its light green rind and sweet red flesh, Royal Sweet is a classic seedless watermelon variety. It produces medium-sized fruits weighing 15-18 pounds and is well-suited for various growing conditions.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Variety

When selecting a seedless watermelon variety, consider the following factors:

• Climate and Growing Season: Choose a variety that can thrive in your local climate and has a maturity period that fits your growing season.
• Disease Resistance: Look for varieties with resistance to common diseases like anthracnose and fusarium wilt to ensure a healthy crop.
• Fruit Size: Consider the size of the watermelons you prefer, as different varieties produce fruits ranging from compact to large.
• Flavor and Texture: Personal preference plays a role in selecting a variety with the desired sweetness, juiciness, and flesh texture.

Preparing the Soil and Planting

Proper soil preparation and planting techniques are essential for successful seedless watermelon growth. Watermelons thrive in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.

Soil Preparation

1. Test your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels. Amend the soil as needed to achieve the desired pH and nutrient balance.
2. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil to improve drainage and fertility.
3. Create raised beds or hills to ensure proper drainage and warmth for the watermelon plants.
4. Apply a balanced fertilizer or aged manure to the planting area, following the recommended application rates.

Planting Seedless Watermelon Seeds or Transplants

• From Seeds: Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 2-3 feet apart in rows spaced 6-8 feet apart. Sow seeds after the last frost date when soil temperatures reach at least 70°F.
• From Transplants: If using transplants, plant them slightly deeper than their original soil level, spacing them 2-3 feet apart in rows 6-8 feet apart.

Care and Maintenance

Providing proper care and maintenance is crucial for growing healthy seedless watermelon plants and achieving a bountiful harvest.

Watering and Fertilizing

• Water plants deeply and consistently, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer or side-dress with aged manure or compost every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pest and Disease Management

Seedless watermelons can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:

• Pests: Aphids, cucumber beetles, and spider mites.
• Diseases: Fusarium wilt, anthracnose, and powdery mildew.

To prevent and control these issues, consider the following strategies:

• Practice crop rotation and remove plant debris to reduce pest and disease pressure.
• Use row covers or insect netting to protect plants from pests.
• Apply organic or chemical pesticides and fungicides according to label instructions, if necessary.
• Choose disease-resistant varieties for added protection.

Pollination and Fruit Set

Although seedless watermelons do not produce viable seeds, they still require pollination for fruit set. To ensure adequate pollination, consider the following options:

• Plant a few seeded watermelon plants alongside the seedless varieties to provide pollen.
• Use beehives or introduce other pollinating insects to the growing area.
• Hand-pollinate by transferring pollen from male to female flowers using a small brush or cotton swab.

Harvesting and Storage

Knowing when to harvest and how to properly store seedless watermelons is essential for enjoying their peak flavor and maximizing their shelf life.

Signs of Ripeness

Look for these indicators to determine when a seedless watermelon is ripe and ready for harvesting:

• The underside of the watermelon, where it rests on the ground, turns from white to creamy or yellow.
• The rind develops a dull, matte appearance and loses its glossy sheen.
• The tendril (curly stem) nearest the fruit turns brown and dries up.
• When tapped, the watermelon produces a hollow, dull sound.

Harvesting Techniques

1. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the watermelon from the vine, leaving 1-2 inches of stem attached.
2. Harvest watermelons in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to prevent condensation and potential spoilage.
3. Handle watermelons carefully to avoid bruising or damaging the rind.
4. Use a wagon or wheelbarrow to transport the harvested watermelons to prevent unnecessary strain.

Storage and Shelf Life

• Store watermelons at room temperature (55-60°F) for up to 2 weeks.
• Refrigerate watermelons at 40-45°F to extend their shelf life for up to 3-4 weeks.
• Avoid storing watermelons near other ripe fruits, as they can absorb flavors and aromas.
• Cut watermelons should be wrapped tightly and refrigerated, and consumed within 3-4 days.

Conclusion

Growing seedless watermelons can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for gardeners of all skill levels. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can choose the right variety, properly prepare the soil and planting area, provide attentive care and maintenance, and successfully harvest and store your seedless watermelon crop. With patience and dedication, you can enjoy the sweet, juicy, and convenient delight of homegrown seedless watermelons.