How to Grow Watermelon in Louisiana

Container Watermelon 2022 / Blacktail Mountain Watermelon

Growing watermelons in Louisiana can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. The state’s hot and humid climate presents unique challenges for watermelon cultivation, but with the right strategies, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these juicy, refreshing fruits.

Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety for Louisiana’s Climate

Selecting the appropriate watermelon variety is crucial for successful cultivation in Louisiana’s climate. Different varieties have varying degrees of heat and disease tolerance, which can significantly impact their performance. To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comparative table of some popular watermelon varieties and their characteristics:

VarietySizeMaturity PeriodHeat ToleranceDisease Resistance

Crimson Sweet	Large (16-25 lbs)	85-90 days	High	Moderate
Sugar Baby	Small (6-10 lbs)	75-80 days	Moderate	Good
Charleston Gray	Large (20-30 lbs)	90-100 days	High	Good
Amarillo Yellow	Medium (12-18 lbs)	80-90 days	High	Moderate
Mickey Lee	Large (18-25 lbs)	90-95 days	High	Good

Heat-Tolerant Varieties

Louisiana’s hot summers can be challenging for watermelon plants, making heat-tolerant varieties essential. Crimson Sweet, Charleston Gray, and Mickey Lee are excellent choices known for their ability to thrive in high temperatures. These varieties can withstand prolonged exposure to heat without compromising fruit quality or yield.

Disease-Resistant Varieties

The humid conditions in Louisiana can foster the growth of various plant diseases, such as fusarium wilt, anthracnose, and gummy stem blight. Choosing disease-resistant varieties like Sugar Baby, Charleston Gray, and Mickey Lee can help mitigate these risks and ensure a healthier crop.

Site Selection and Soil Preparation

Proper site selection and soil preparation are critical for watermelon cultivation in Louisiana. These factors can significantly influence plant growth, yield, and overall crop success.

Watermelons require a well-drained location with full sun exposure and protection from strong winds. They thrive in sandy loam or loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8.

Choosing the Right Location

When selecting a site for your watermelon patch, consider the following factors:

• Sunlight exposure: Watermelons need at least 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid areas with excessive shade from trees or buildings.
• Drainage: Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other issues. Raised beds or sloped terrain can improve drainage.
• Wind protection: Strong winds can damage the vines and prevent proper pollination. Consider planting near windbreaks or installing temporary fencing.

Soil Requirements

Watermelons prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Before planting, perform a soil test to determine the pH level and nutrient content. If necessary, amend the soil with the following:

• Organic matter: Incorporate well-rotted compost or manure to improve soil structure and fertility.
• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 12-12-12, at the recommended rate for your soil conditions.
• Lime or sulfur: Adjust the soil pH as needed by adding agricultural lime to raise it or elemental sulfur to lower it.

Planting and Caring for Watermelon Plants

Proper planting techniques and ongoing care are essential for ensuring a successful watermelon crop in Louisiana.

Watermelons are warm-season crops that thrive in temperatures between 70°F and 95°F. They require consistent moisture and nutrients throughout their growing cycle.

When to Plant

In Louisiana, the ideal planting time for watermelons is typically between April and May, once the soil temperature reaches at least 70°F. This timing allows the plants to establish themselves before the hottest summer months and ensures a longer growing season.

Planting Techniques

Follow these steps for planting watermelon seeds or transplants:

1. Seed planting: Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart in rows spaced 6-8 feet apart. Thin seedlings to 2-3 feet apart once they have established.
2. Transplanting: If using transplants, plant them at the same depth they were growing in the container, and space them 2-3 feet apart in rows 6-8 feet apart.
3. Hill planting: An alternative method is to plant seeds in hills or raised mounds, spacing hills 6-8 feet apart in all directions.

Watering and Fertilizing

• Watering: Watermelons require consistent moisture, especially during fruit development. Aim to provide 1-2 inches of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 12-12-12, at the recommended rate when the vines begin to run and again when the fruits start to develop.

Pest and Disease Management

Common pests and diseases affecting watermelons in Louisiana include:

• Pests: Aphids, cucumber beetles, spider mites, and squash vine borers.
• Diseases: Fusarium wilt, anthracnose, gummy stem blight, and powdery mildew.

To manage pests and diseases, consider the following strategies:

• Crop rotation: Rotate your watermelon crop annually to different areas of the garden to prevent soil-borne diseases from building up.
• Insect barriers: Use row covers or insect netting to protect plants from pests during the early stages of growth.
• Organic insecticides: Apply organic insecticides like neem oil or insecticidal soap to control insect pests.
• Fungicides: If necessary, use fungicides approved for use on watermelons to control fungal diseases.

Harvesting and Storing Watermelons

Harvesting and storing watermelons properly is essential to ensure maximum flavor and longevity.

Watermelons typically take 80-100 days to mature, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Identifying Ripeness

Look for these signs to determine when watermelons are ready for harvesting:

• The underside of the melon, where it rests on the ground, should have a creamy or yellow color.
• The tendril closest to the stem should be brown and dry.
• The rind should be dull and hard to pierce with a fingernail.
• The melon should produce a dull, hollow sound when tapped.

Harvesting Techniques

To harvest watermelons, follow these steps:

1. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the stem about 2-3 inches from the fruit.
2. Handle the melons carefully to avoid bruising or damaging the rind.
3. Avoid carrying watermelons by the stem, as it can tear off and cause the fruit to rot.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once harvested, watermelons can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks. Here are some tips for optimal storage:

• Keep watermelons away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
• Store them on a cool, dry surface, such as a shelf or countertop.
• Avoid stacking watermelons to prevent bruising.
• Once cut, wrap the remaining watermelon tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Despite your best efforts, watermelon growers in Louisiana may face challenges throughout the growing season. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

Pest and Disease Problems

• Aphids and spider mites: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
• Cucumber beetles: Apply row covers or use organic insecticides like pyrethrin or spinosad.
• Fusarium wilt: Plant resistant varieties and practice crop rotation.
• Anthracnose and gummy stem blight: Use fungicides and remove infected plant material.

Environmental Challenges

• Excessive heat: Provide consistent irrigation and consider using shade cloth or row covers during the hottest parts of the day.
• High humidity: Improve air circulation around plants by pruning and spacing them adequately.
• Heavy rainfall: Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot.