How to Grow Watermelon in Delaware

How to Grow Watermelon?

Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety

Selecting the appropriate watermelon variety is crucial for achieving a successful crop in Delaware's climate. The state's humid continental climate, with warm summers and cool winters, presents unique challenges for watermelon cultivation. Here are some popular varieties well-suited for growing in Delaware, along with their key characteristics:

VarietyDays to MaturitySizeDisease ResistanceNotes

Sugar Baby	75-85 days	Small (8-12 lbs)	Good	Early maturing, sweet flavor
Crimson Sweet	85-90 days	Large (16-25 lbs)	Moderate	Classic red flesh, high yields
Charleston Gray	90-100 days	Large (20-30 lbs)	Excellent	Heat and disease resistant
Yellow Doll	70-80 days	Small (6-10 lbs)	Good	Unique yellow flesh, early harvest

Choosing the right variety is crucial for adapting to Delaware's growing season length and weather conditions. Early maturing varieties like Sugar Baby and Yellow Doll are excellent choices for ensuring a successful harvest before the onset of cooler temperatures.

Seedless vs. Seeded Varieties

When it comes to watermelons, you have the option of growing seedless or seeded varieties. Seedless watermelons, also known as triploid hybrids, are developed through a specialized breeding process and offer a smooth, seed-free eating experience. However, they require careful pollination from seeded (diploid) varieties and may be more challenging for home growers.

Seeded watermelon varieties, on the other hand, are easier to cultivate and typically more vigorous growers. They produce fruits with edible seeds and can be an excellent choice for Delaware gardeners, especially those new to watermelon cultivation.

Climate and Growing Conditions

Watermelons thrive in warm, sunny conditions and require a long growing season of at least 80 to 100 days, depending on the variety. Delaware's climate is generally suitable for watermelon cultivation, with average summer temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).

Watermelons prefer well-drained, fertile soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8. Sandy loam or loamy soils are ideal, as they provide good drainage and warmth for the plants. Adequate moisture and sunlight are also essential for optimal growth and fruit development.

Planting and Caring for Watermelon Plants

Proper planting and care are essential for ensuring a bountiful watermelon harvest in Delaware. Follow these guidelines to give your watermelon plants the best start and maintain their health throughout the growing season.

Watermelons are typically planted after the last frost date in spring, when soil temperatures reach at least 70°F (21°C). In Delaware, this typically occurs in late May or early June. Planting too early can lead to stunted growth and decreased yields.

Site Selection and Soil Preparation

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil for your watermelon patch. Watermelons require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day and thrive in raised beds or hills, which improve drainage and soil warmth.

Before planting, prepare the soil by removing weeds and incorporating well-rotted compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage. Watermelons are heavy feeders, so amending the soil with organic matter is crucial for optimal growth and fruit production.

Watering and Fertilizing

Consistent moisture is essential for watermelon plants, especially during fruit development. Water the plants deeply, aiming for about 1 to 2 inches of water per week, depending on rainfall and soil conditions. Avoid overhead watering, as it can promote fungal diseases.

Watermelons benefit from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 formula, at the time of planting and again when the vines begin to run. Follow the package instructions for application rates and timing.

Pest and Disease Management

Like any crop, watermelons are susceptible to various pests and diseases that can impact plant health and yields. Being proactive in monitoring and implementing appropriate control measures is crucial for a successful harvest.

Proper site selection, crop rotation, and maintaining good garden hygiene can help prevent many pest and disease problems. Additionally, choosing disease-resistant varieties and practicing integrated pest management (IPM) techniques can greatly reduce the need for chemical interventions.

Insect Pests

Several insect pests can pose a threat to watermelon plants in Delaware. Some of the most common include:

• Cucumber beetles (striped and spotted)
• Aphids
• Squash bugs
• Squash vine borers

To control these pests, consider implementing the following organic and chemical control methods:

• Floating row covers or netting to exclude insects
• Hand-picking and removing infested leaves or fruits
• Introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings
• Using insecticidal soaps or neem oil for minor infestations
• Applying appropriate insecticides as a last resort, following label instructions carefully

Plant Diseases

Watermelons can be susceptible to various fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases. Some common diseases to watch out for include:

• Fusarium wilt
• Anthracnose
• Powdery mildew
• Downy mildew
• Mosaic viruses

To prevent and manage these diseases, consider the following preventive measures and treatments:

• Practicing crop rotation and removing plant debris
• Using disease-resistant varieties
• Spacing plants properly for good air circulation
• Avoiding overhead watering
• Applying fungicides or copper-based products as needed, following label instructions

Early detection and prompt action are crucial for effective disease management in watermelon plants.

Harvesting and Storage

After putting in the effort throughout the growing season, it's essential to know when and how to harvest your watermelons for optimal flavor and shelf life.

Watermelons typically take 80 to 100 days to reach maturity, depending on the variety. However, the exact harvest time can vary based on the specific cultivar and growing conditions.

Signs of Ripeness

Several indicators can help you determine when watermelons are ripe and ready for harvesting:

1. Curly tendril: The tendril closest to the fruit stem will turn brown and dry when the watermelon is ripe.
2. Dull underside: The underside of the watermelon, where it rests on the ground, will turn from white to a creamy or yellow color when ripe.
3. Hollow sound: A ripe watermelon will produce a hollow, dull sound when tapped or thumped with your knuckles.
4. Resistance to pressure: Gently pressing on the watermelon's surface should yield only slight give, indicating a ripe and juicy interior.

It's important to harvest watermelons promptly once they reach maturity, as leaving them on the vine too long can lead to over-ripening and a decrease in quality.

Proper Handling and Storage

After harvesting, handle watermelons carefully to prevent bruising or damage. Use a sharp knife or pruners to cut the stem, leaving about 2 inches of stem attached to the fruit.

For short-term storage, watermelons can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. However, for longer storage, it's best to refrigerate them at temperatures between 50°F and 60°F (10°C and 15°C). This can extend their shelf life for up to 4 weeks.

When storing watermelons, avoid stacking them or placing heavy objects on top, as this can cause bruising and shorten their storage life.

Conclusion

Growing watermelons in Delaware can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for gardeners of all skill levels. By selecting the right variety, providing proper care, and implementing effective pest and disease management strategies, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet and juicy watermelons throughout the summer months.

Remember to choose a suitable planting location, water and fertilize consistently, and monitor for pests and diseases. With patience and dedication, you'll be able to savor the fruits of your labor and share the delicious rewards of homegrown watermelons with family and friends.