How to Grow Watermelon in Massachusetts

Grow Cantaloupes Vertically

Growing watermelons in Massachusetts can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. The relatively short growing season and unpredictable weather conditions in this region present unique challenges. However, by following the right steps and choosing suitable varieties, you can successfully cultivate juicy and flavorful watermelons right in your backyard. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key factors for growing watermelons in Massachusetts, from selecting appropriate varieties to harvesting and storage.

Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety

One of the most critical factors in growing watermelons in Massachusetts is choosing the right variety. With a short growing season, it’s essential to select varieties that mature quickly and can withstand cooler temperatures. Additionally, disease resistance and fruit size should be considered to ensure a bountiful harvest.

VarietyDays to MaturityDisease ResistanceFruit Size (lbs)

Sugar Baby	75-85	Anthracnose, Fusarium Wilt	6-12
Crimson Sweet	85-95	Anthracnose, Fusarium Wilt	16-24
Millionaire	90-100	Anthracnose, Fusarium Wilt	20-30
Charleston Gray	90-100	Anthracnose, Fusarium Wilt	25-35
Moon and Stars	100-120	Anthracnose, Fusarium Wilt	15-25

Heat-Tolerant Varieties

While watermelons thrive in warm conditions, Massachusetts summers can be relatively cool. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose heat-tolerant varieties that can withstand cooler temperatures and still produce high-quality fruit. Some heat-tolerant options include Sugar Baby, Crimson Sweet, and Millionaire.

Disease-Resistant Varieties

Common watermelon diseases in Massachusetts include anthracnose, fusarium wilt, and gummy stem blight. Selecting disease-resistant varieties can help mitigate these threats and ensure a healthier crop. Varieties like Sugar Baby, Crimson Sweet, and Millionaire offer resistance to anthracnose and fusarium wilt, making them excellent choices for local growers.

Site Selection and Soil Preparation

Choosing the right site and properly preparing the soil are essential steps for successful watermelon cultivation in Massachusetts. Watermelons require full sun exposure and well-drained soil for optimal growth and fruit development.

• Select a site that receives at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other issues.
• Follow these soil preparation steps:
  • Clear the area of any debris or weeds.
  • Till the soil to a depth of 8-12 inches to loosen it and improve aeration.
  • Incorporate aged compost or well-rotted manure to increase soil fertility and improve drainage.
  • Test the soil pH and adjust it to a range of 6.0-6.8, which is ideal for watermelon growth.

Soil Testing

Soil testing is crucial for understanding the nutrient levels and pH of your soil. This information will help you determine the appropriate amendments needed for optimal watermelon growth. Contact your local cooperative extension service or use a reliable soil testing kit to obtain accurate results.

Soil Amendments

Based on the soil test results, you may need to amend the soil to improve its fertility and structure. Common amendments for watermelon cultivation include:

• Aged compost or well-rotted manure to increase organic matter content and improve soil structure.
• Fertilizers containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to ensure adequate nutrient availability for plant growth and fruit development.
• Lime or sulfur to adjust the soil pH to the desired range, if necessary.

Planting and Spacing

Proper planting and spacing techniques are crucial for ensuring adequate air circulation, nutrient uptake, and fruit development in watermelon plants.

1. If starting from seeds, plant them 1-2 inches deep and 3-4 feet apart in rows spaced 6-8 feet apart.
2. For transplants, carefully transplant seedlings after the last frost date, spacing them 3-4 feet apart in rows spaced 6-8 feet apart.
3. Water the seeds or transplants immediately after planting to ensure good soil-seed contact and promote germination or root establishment.
4. Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.

Direct Seeding vs. Transplanting

Both direct seeding and transplanting are viable options for growing watermelons in Massachusetts. Direct seeding is more straightforward but may result in a slightly delayed harvest. Transplanting, on the other hand, allows you to start seedlings indoors and get a head start on the growing season, but it requires more effort and care during the transplanting process.

Row Spacing and Plant Spacing

Adequate spacing between rows and plants is essential for proper air circulation, nutrient uptake, and fruit development. For most watermelon varieties, a spacing of 6-8 feet between rows and 3-4 feet between plants within the rows is recommended. However, it’s always best to consult the specific variety’s guidelines for optimal spacing recommendations.

Watermelon Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance practices are crucial for ensuring healthy watermelon plant growth and fruit production. This includes watering, fertilizing, and managing pests and diseases.

Pest/DiseaseSymptomsManagement Strategies

Aphids	Curled leaves, sticky honeydew	Insecticidal soap, neem oil, or ladybugs
Cucumber Beetles	Leaf damage, wilting	Row covers, neem oil, or pyrethrins
Fusarium Wilt	Yellowing leaves, wilting	Crop rotation, resistant varieties
Anthracnose	Sunken lesions on fruit, leaf spots	Fungicides, resistant varieties
Gummy Stem Blight	Stem cankers, leaf spots	Fungicides, crop rotation

Watering

Watermelons have high water requirements, especially during fruit development. Ensure that the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly, providing approximately 1-2 inches of water per week, depending on the weather conditions.

Fertilization

Watermelons are heavy feeders, and proper fertilization is essential for optimal growth and fruit production. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 12-12-12, at the time of planting and again when the vines begin to run. Sidedress with additional nitrogen fertilizer when the watermelons start to form.

Pest and Disease Management

Monitoring for pests and diseases is crucial for maintaining a healthy watermelon crop. Common pests in Massachusetts include aphids and cucumber beetles, while diseases like fusarium wilt, anthracnose, and gummy stem blight can also be problematic.

Employ integrated pest management strategies, such as crop rotation, resistant varieties, row covers, and natural pesticides like neem oil or insecticidal soap. For disease management, fungicides may be necessary in severe cases, but always follow label instructions carefully.

Harvesting and Storage

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

Identifying Ripeness

Several indicators can help determine when a watermelon is ripe and ready for harvesting:

• The underside (ground spot) of the watermelon should have a creamy yellow or white color.
• The tendril closest to the fruit should be brown and withered.
• Tapping the watermelon should produce a hollow, dull sound.

Handling and Storage

Once harvested, handle watermelons with care to avoid bruising or damaging the rind. Store them in a cool, dry place, ideally between 55-60°F (13-16°C). Properly stored watermelons can last for 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, consider refrigerating the watermelons, but be aware that this may affect their texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Growing watermelons in Massachusetts may seem challenging, but with the right knowledge and techniques, it can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By selecting suitable varieties, preparing the soil properly, providing adequate care and maintenance, and following the proper harvesting and storage methods, you can enjoy delicious, homegrown watermelons throughout the summer months. Embrace the challenge and give watermelon cultivation a try in your Massachusetts garden. With patience and dedication, you’ll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest of juicy, sweet watermelons.