How to Grow Watermelon in Missouri

Early-season Watermelon Production in Missouri

Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety

Selecting the appropriate watermelon variety is crucial for a successful crop in Missouri’s climate. Look for varieties that are well-suited to the state’s growing conditions and have good disease resistance. Consider factors such as maturity period, fruit size, and flavor when making your selection.

Here’s a table comparing some popular watermelon varieties suitable for Missouri:

VarietyMaturity PeriodFruit SizeDisease ResistanceNotes

Sugar Baby	75-85 days	6-12 lbs	Good	Small, sweet fruits
Crimson Sweet	85-90 days	16-25 lbs	Excellent	Classic large, red-fleshed melons
Yellow Doll	70-75 days	6-10 lbs	Good	Yellow-fleshed, unique flavor
Charleston Gray	90-100 days	20-35 lbs	Good	Large, gray-green rind

Site Selection and Preparation

Watermelons thrive in full sunlight, so choose a spot that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. The site should also have well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8. If your soil is heavy or compacted, consider raised beds or amending it with compost or aged manure to improve drainage and nutrient content.

Prepare the planting area by removing weeds and debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of 8 to 12 inches using a garden fork or tiller. This will allow the watermelon roots to penetrate deeply and access moisture and nutrients more effectively.

Planting and Spacing

The best time to plant watermelon seeds in Missouri is typically between late May and early June, once the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed. Plant the seeds 1 to 2 inches deep and space them 2 to 3 feet apart in rows or hills. Refer to a planting guide or schedule specific to your region for optimal planting times.

For proper plant spacing, consider the following guidelines:

VarietyRow SpacingPlant Spacing

Bush varieties	6-8 feet	3-4 feet
Vining varieties	8-10 feet	4-6 feet

Watering and Fertilizing

Watermelons require consistent moisture for optimal growth and fruit development. Water the plants deeply, ensuring the soil is moist to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Avoid overhead watering, as it can promote fungal diseases. Instead, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system.

In terms of fertilization, watermelons benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied at planting time and again when the vines begin to run. A fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 is generally recommended. Here’s a table with suggested fertilizer application rates:

Fertilizer TypeApplication Rate (per 100 sq. ft.)

Organic Compost	1-2 inches
Balanced Fertilizer (10-10-10)	1-2 lbs

Pest and Disease Management

Watermelons are susceptible to various pests and diseases in Missouri. Here are some common ones to watch out for:

• Common pests:
  • Aphids
  • Cucumber beetles
  • Spider mites
  • Squash bugs
• Common diseases:
  • Anthracnose
  • Downy mildew
  • Fusarium wilt
  • Powdery mildew
  

To control pests and diseases, practice crop rotation, remove infected plant material, and encourage beneficial insects. Organic control methods include using insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or introducing beneficial nematodes. In severe cases, you may need to resort to approved chemical pesticides or fungicides, following label instructions carefully.

Harvesting and Storage

Knowing when to harvest your watermelons is crucial for enjoying their peak flavor and texture. Here are some indicators to look for:

• The underside of the watermelon, where it rests on the ground, turns from white to creamy yellow or pale yellow.
• The curly tendril on the stem nearest the fruit turns brown and dries up.
• The watermelon produces a dull, hollow sound when tapped.

To harvest, use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the stem about 2 inches above the fruit. Avoid pulling or twisting the watermelon, as this can damage the vines.

For storage, watermelons can be kept at room temperature for up to two weeks or refrigerated for up to three weeks. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near other ripening fruits, as this can cause them to overripen and spoil more quickly.

Conclusion

Growing watermelons in Missouri requires careful attention to variety selection, site preparation, planting techniques, and ongoing care. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can maximize your chances of a successful and bountiful watermelon harvest. With patience and dedication, you’ll be rewarded with sweet, juicy watermelons that are perfect for enjoying during the warm summer months.