How to Grow Watermelon in Maryland

These Little Tricks Will Make Your Watermelons Very Happy!

Growing watermelon in Maryland can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to enjoy the sweet, juicy fruits during the warm summer months. With the right variety, proper soil preparation, and attentive care, you can successfully cultivate watermelons in the state's climate. This guide will provide you with the essential information to grow watermelon in Maryland, from selecting suitable varieties to harvesting and storage techniques.

Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety

Maryland's climate can be challenging for watermelon growth, with its hot and humid summers and occasional periods of heavy rainfall or drought. Selecting the right watermelon variety adapted to these conditions is crucial for a bountiful harvest. Here are some popular choices:

VarietyDescriptionGrowing Requirements

Sugar Baby	Small, round watermelons weighing 6-10 lbs. Dark green rind with sweet, crisp flesh. Early maturing variety.	Grows well in various soil types. Tolerates heat and drought.
Crimson Sweet	Large, oblong watermelons weighing 16-25 lbs. Striped green rind with deep red, sugary flesh.	Requires well-drained soil and consistent moisture. Prefers warmer climates.
Charleston Gray	Large, oblong watermelons with light green-gray rind and bright red flesh. Excellent disease resistance.	Thrives in warm, humid conditions. Adapts well to various soil types.

Sugar Baby Watermelon

The Sugar Baby watermelon is an excellent choice for Maryland growers, thanks to its compact size, early maturity, and tolerance to heat and drought. These small, round melons typically weigh between 6 and 10 pounds, with a dark green rind and crisp, sweet flesh. Sugar Baby watermelons are well-suited for Maryland's growing season, as they can be harvested in just 75 to 80 days after planting.

Crimson Sweet Watermelon

If you have the space and patience for a larger watermelon variety, the Crimson Sweet is a popular option. These oblong melons can weigh between 16 and 25 pounds and boast a striped green rind with deep red, sugary flesh. While Crimson Sweet watermelons require consistent moisture and prefer warmer climates, they can thrive in Maryland with proper care and attention.

Preparing the Soil

Proper soil preparation is essential for successful watermelon growth in Maryland. Watermelons prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8. Heavy clay or compacted soils can hinder root growth and water absorption, so it's crucial to amend the soil accordingly.

Soil Testing

Before planting, it's recommended to conduct a soil test to determine the pH level and nutrient composition. This will help you understand what amendments, if any, are needed to create an optimal growing environment. You can obtain soil test kits from your local nursery or cooperative extension office.

Raised Beds and Hills

In areas with poor drainage or heavy clay soils, consider planting watermelons in raised beds or hills. Raised beds improve drainage and soil aeration, while hills allow for better water drainage and root development. Ensure that the raised beds or hills are at least 8 inches high and 4 feet wide, with ample space between them for vines to spread.

Planting and Spacing

The timing and method of planting watermelons in Maryland are crucial for a successful harvest. In most areas of the state, it's best to plant watermelon seeds or transplants after the last frost date, typically in late May or early June.

Before planting, it's essential to prepare the soil by incorporating compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Plant watermelon seeds 1 inch deep and 2 feet apart, or transplant seedlings at the same spacing.

Direct Seeding vs. Transplanting

Direct seeding is a common method for planting watermelons, as it minimizes transplant shock and allows for undisturbed root development. However, transplanting seedlings can give your watermelon plants a head start, resulting in an earlier harvest. If you choose to transplant, be cautious when handling the seedlings to avoid damaging the roots.

Spacing Requirements

Proper spacing is crucial for watermelon plants to receive adequate sunlight, air circulation, and nutrient uptake. Plant watermelon seeds or transplants 2 feet apart in rows spaced 6 to 8 feet apart. This spacing allows the vines to spread and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to disease and reduced yields.

Watering and Fertilizing

Watermelons have high water and nutrient requirements, especially during fruit development. Consistent moisture and proper fertilization are essential for promoting healthy growth and maximizing yields.

Once the watermelon plants have established themselves, water them deeply and consistently, providing about 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Avoid overhead watering, as it can promote fungal diseases. Instead, use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to water the plants at the base.

Watering Schedule

• Seedling stage: Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not saturated.
• Vine growth stage: Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on soil conditions.
• Fruit development stage: Increase watering to 1-2 inches per week, ensuring consistent moisture for optimal fruit size and sweetness.

Fertilizer Needs

Watermelons benefit from a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P-K). Apply a starter fertilizer at planting time, followed by a side-dressing of nitrogen-rich fertilizer once the vines begin to run. Additional applications of a balanced fertilizer may be needed every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.

Pest and Disease Management

Like many crops, watermelons are susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect their growth and yield. Implementing preventive measures and monitoring your plants closely are crucial for effective management.

• Cucumber beetles, aphids, and squash bugs are common insect pests that can damage watermelon plants. Use row covers or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
• Fungal diseases like fusarium wilt, anthracnose, and powdery mildew can be problematic. Practice crop rotation, provide adequate spacing, and apply fungicides if necessary.
• Bacterial wilt and mosaic viruses can be transmitted by insects or through infected seeds. Remove and destroy affected plants, and control insect vectors.

Common Pests

• Cucumber Beetles: These yellow-and-black striped or spotted beetles can transmit bacterial wilt and cause severe defoliation. Use row covers, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
• Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and transmit viruses. Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings.
• Squash Bugs: These brownish-black bugs can cause wilting and stunted growth. Hand-pick and destroy egg clusters, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, or use trap crops.

Common Diseases

• Fusarium Wilt: A soil-borne fungal disease that causes wilting, yellowing, and eventual plant death. Practice crop rotation, use resistant varieties, and avoid overwatering.
• Anthracnose: A fungal disease that causes circular, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, and fruits. Remove infected plant parts, improve air circulation, and apply fungicides if necessary.
• Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves and stems. Provide adequate spacing, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides if needed.

Harvesting and Storage

Knowing when to harvest your watermelons and how to store them properly is essential for enjoying their peak flavor and extending their shelf life.

The watermelon vine will naturally begin to yellow and dry out as the fruits ripen. Additionally, the underside of the watermelon will develop a creamy or yellow spot where it rests on the ground.

Signs of Ripeness

• The underside of the watermelon has a creamy or yellow spot (the "ground spot").
• The watermelon produces a hollow sound when tapped.
• The curly tendril on the stem near the watermelon has withered and turned brown.
• The watermelon feels heavy for its size.