How to Grow Watermelons in Rhode Island

How to Grow Watermelons – Complete Growing Guide

Choosing the Right Variety

One of the most crucial steps in growing watermelons in Rhode Island is choosing varieties that are well-suited to the region’s climate. Some watermelon varieties are more cold-hardy and disease-resistant than others, making them ideal for cultivation in the state’s relatively short growing season and variable weather conditions.

VarietyDays to MaturityCold ToleranceDisease Resistance

Sugar Baby	75-85 days	High	Fusarium Wilt, Anthracnose
Crimson Sweet	85-95 days	Moderate	Fusarium Wilt, Anthracnose
Charleston Gray	90-100 days	Low	Fusarium Wilt, Anthracnose
Blacktail Mountain	70-80 days	High	Fusarium Wilt, Anthracnose, Powdery Mildew

Cold-Hardy Varieties

For Rhode Island’s cooler climate, selecting cold-hardy varieties like Sugar Baby and Blacktail Mountain is essential. These varieties can tolerate lower temperatures and shorter growing seasons, ensuring a successful harvest even in less-than-ideal conditions.

Disease-Resistant Varieties

Rhode Island’s humid summers can increase the risk of fungal diseases like fusarium wilt, anthracnose, and powdery mildew. Choosing disease-resistant varieties like Sugar Baby, Crimson Sweet, and Blacktail Mountain can help minimize the chances of crop failure due to these common watermelon diseases.

Site Selection and Soil Preparation

Proper site selection and soil preparation are crucial for successful watermelon cultivation in Rhode Island. Watermelons thrive in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and require ample sunlight throughout the growing season.

Watermelons need a sunny location with at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. They prefer well-drained, sandy loam or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Before planting, conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient levels and any necessary amendments.

Sunlight Requirements

Watermelons are sun-loving plants and require at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production. Choose a location that receives full sun exposure throughout the day, with minimal shade from trees or buildings.

Soil Testing and Amendments

Proper soil preparation is essential for watermelon cultivation. Conduct a soil test to determine the pH level and nutrient content of your garden bed. Watermelons prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.

If your soil is too acidic, apply limestone or wood ash to raise the pH. For alkaline soils, add sulfur or sphagnum peat moss to lower the pH. Incorporate well-rotted compost or aged manure into the soil to improve fertility and drainage.

Planting and Care

With the right varieties and site preparation, it’s time to plant and care for your watermelon crop. Follow these steps for successful cultivation in Rhode Island’s climate.

Watermelons can be grown from seeds or transplants. If starting from seeds, sow them indoors four to six weeks before the last expected frost date. Plant the seeds 1 inch deep and 12 inches apart in seed trays or pots filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix.

Planting Techniques

• Direct Seeding: After the last frost, plant seeds 1 inch deep and 3 feet apart in raised beds or hills. Space rows 6 to 8 feet apart.
• Transplanting: If starting with seedlings, harden them off for a week before transplanting. Plant them 3 feet apart in raised beds or hills, spacing rows 6 to 8 feet apart.
• Mulching: Apply a 2-inch layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Watering and Fertilizing

Watermelons have high water and nutrient requirements, especially during fruit development. Water deeply and regularly, providing about 1 to 2 inches of water per week, depending on weather conditions.

Fertilize watermelons with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.

Pest and Disease Management

Several pests and diseases can affect watermelon plants in Rhode Island, including:

• Aphids
• Cucumber Beetles
• Squash Vine Borers
• Fusarium Wilt
• Anthracnose
• Powdery Mildew

To manage pests, use row covers or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed. For diseases, choose resistant varieties, practice crop rotation, and apply fungicides if necessary, following label instructions carefully.

Harvesting and Storage

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

Watermelons are ready to harvest when the underside (where the melon rests on the ground) turns from white to creamy yellow or tan. The curly tendril nearest the stem should also turn brown and dry up.

Ripeness Indicators

• Underside turns creamy yellow or tan
• Tendril nearest the stem turns brown and dries up
• Hollow sound when tapped
• Resistance when pressing the rind

Harvesting Techniques

• Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the watermelon from the vine, leaving 2-3 inches of stem attached.
• Avoid twisting or pulling the watermelon, as this can damage the vine and remaining fruit.
• Harvest in the morning when it’s cooler to prevent the watermelons from overheating.

Storage and Preservation

• Store uncut watermelons at room temperature for up to two weeks.
• Refrigerate cut watermelons in an airtight container for up to five days.
• Freeze watermelon cubes or puree for longer-term storage.
• Can or pickle watermelon rind for a tasty treat.

Conclusion

Growing watermelons in Rhode Island requires careful planning, attention to detail, and the right techniques, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By selecting suitable varieties, preparing the site and soil properly, and following best practices for planting, care, harvesting, and storage, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, juicy watermelons right from your own backyard. With patience and dedication, any Rhode Island gardener can successfully cultivate these refreshing summer fruits.