How to Grow Watermelon in West Virginia

Growing watermelon 2 – Sugar Baby Melon, from seed to harvest!

Watermelons thrive in warm and sunny conditions, making West Virginia’s relatively mild summers and long growing season suitable for their cultivation. However, the state’s unpredictable weather patterns, including sudden temperature fluctuations and heavy rainfall, can pose risks. By following best practices and selecting the right watermelon varieties, you can mitigate these challenges and enjoy a bountiful harvest.

Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety for Growing Watermelon in West Virginia

Selecting appropriate watermelon varieties is crucial for successful cultivation in West Virginia’s climate. Look for varieties that are well-suited to the region’s growing conditions, including disease resistance, shorter maturation periods, and tolerance to cool temperatures.

Recommended Watermelon Varieties for West Virginia

1. Sugar Baby: A compact, icebox-type watermelon with a sweet and flavorful red flesh. It matures in approximately 75 days and is well-adapted to cooler climates.
2. Crimson Sweet: A popular variety known for its deep red flesh and high sugar content. It produces large, oblong fruits and typically matures in 85-90 days.
3. Blacktail Mountain: A reliable choice for northern gardens, this variety produces small to medium-sized watermelons with crisp, sweet flesh. It matures in around 70 days.
4. Charleston Gray: A classic heirloom variety that originated in West Virginia. It produces large, oblong fruits with a light green rind and sweet, red flesh. Maturity ranges from 90-100 days.
5. Early Canada: As the name suggests, this variety is well-suited for cooler climates and shorter growing seasons. It produces small to medium-sized melons with a sweet flavor and matures in approximately 75 days.

Site Selection and Soil Preparation

Proper site selection and soil preparation are critical for successful watermelon cultivation. Watermelons require well-drained soil, ample sunlight, and protection from strong winds.

Ideal Site Conditions

Watermelons thrive in full sun exposure, ideally receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Choose a site with well-drained, slightly elevated soil to prevent waterlogging. Additionally, consider providing a windbreak, such as a fence or row of tall plants, to protect the vines from strong winds that can damage them.

Soil Requirements

Watermelons prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8. The soil should be well-draining, fertile, and have a sandy or loamy texture. To ensure optimal growth, it’s essential to amend the soil with organic matter and appropriate fertilizers based on soil test results. Here’s a table with recommended soil amendments and their quantities for a 10×10 foot planting area:

Soil AmendmentQuantity

Aged Compost or Well-Rotted Manure	2-3 inches spread evenly over the soil surface
Balanced Fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10)	1-2 pounds incorporated into the soil
Agricultural Lime (if soil is too acidic)	Apply according to soil test recommendations

Planting and Care

Proper planting techniques and ongoing care are essential for the healthy growth and development of watermelon plants.

Watermelons are warm-season crops and should be planted after the last frost date in your area, typically when soil temperatures reach at least 65°F (18°C). In West Virginia, this is usually around late May or early June.

Planting Techniques

1. Start watermelon seeds indoors 2-4 weeks before the anticipated planting date to give them a head start.
2. Prepare raised hills or rows, spaced 6-8 feet apart, to improve drainage and warmth.
3. Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep and 2-3 feet apart within the rows or hills.
4. If transplanting seedlings, space them 3-4 feet apart within the rows or hills.
5. Water the seeds or transplants immediately after planting, and continue to water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Watering and Fertilization

Consistent moisture is crucial for watermelon growth and fruit development. Water the plants deeply, applying 1-2 inches of water per week, adjusting as needed based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

Watermelons are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, at the time of planting and again when the vines begin to run. Side-dress with additional nitrogen fertilizer when the plants begin flowering and fruiting.

Signs of over-watering include:

• Wilting leaves
• Yellowing foliage
• Stunted growth
• Fruit cracking or splitting

Signs of under-watering:

• Dry, cracked soil
• Curled or drooping leaves
• Stunted growth
• Poor fruit development

Weed and Pest Management

Watermelons can be susceptible to various weeds, pests, and diseases in West Virginia. Maintain a weed-free planting area through regular cultivation or the use of mulch. Monitor the plants closely for signs of pests and diseases, and take prompt action to control them using organic or chemical methods as appropriate.

Common weeds to watch for include:

• Crabgrass
• Pigweed
• Lambsquarters
• Purslane

Potential pests and diseases:

• Cucumber beetles
• Aphids
• Powdery mildew
• Anthracnose
• Fusarium wilt

Organic control methods include:

• Hand-picking pests
• Using row covers or insect netting
• Applying insecticidal soaps or neem oil
• Practicing crop rotation

Chemical pesticides and fungicides should be used judiciously and according to label instructions.

Harvesting and Storage

Knowing when to harvest and how to properly handle and store watermelons is essential for ensuring their quality and longevity.

Watermelons typically mature 80-100 days after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Monitor the plants closely as they approach maturity, and watch for the following ripeness indicators:

Ripeness Indicators

• The bottom of the watermelon develops a creamy or yellow spot where it rests on the ground (the “ground spot”).
• The curly tendril closest to the stem turns brown and dries up.
• The rind develops a dull, matte appearance and loses its glossy sheen.
• The watermelon feels heavy for its size, with a dull, hollow sound when tapped.

Harvesting and Handling

1. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the watermelon from the vine, leaving a few inches of stem attached.
2. Handle watermelons carefully to avoid bruising or damaging the rind.
3. Allow freshly harvested watermelons to cure in a shaded area for 1-2 weeks before consuming or storing. This process helps develop their full flavor and sweetness.

Storage Techniques

Proper storage is essential for extending the shelf life of watermelons. Follow these steps for long-term storage:

1. Choose only unblemished, fully ripe watermelons for storage.
2. Store watermelons at a cool temperature, around 55-60°F (13-15°C), with a relative humidity of 80-90%.
3. Avoid storing watermelons near ethylene-producing fruits, such as apples or bananas, as this can cause premature ripening and spoilage.
4. Check stored watermelons regularly and remove any that show signs of decay or spoilage.
5. Well-cured and properly stored watermelons can last for up to 4 weeks.

Conclusion

Growing watermelons in West Virginia requires patience, attention to detail, and adherence to best practices. By selecting suitable varieties, choosing the right site, preparing the soil properly, and following recommended planting, care, harvesting, and storage techniques, you can successfully cultivate this delicious summer treat in your West Virginia garden. With proper planning and care, you’ll be rewarded with juicy, flavorful watermelons that are sure to be the highlight of your summer festivities.