How to Make Watermelons Grow Bigger and Sweeter

Growing Watermelon Plant Time Lapse – Seed to Fruit (110 Days)

In the sweltering summer heat, there's nothing quite as refreshing as biting into a juicy, sweet watermelon. However, growing watermelons that are truly massive and bursting with flavor can be a challenge. Achieving watermelon perfection requires careful planning and attention to detail throughout the growing process. If you're eager to impress your friends and family with gigantic, sugar-rich watermelons, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to make it happen.

Choosing the Right Watermelon Variety

The first step in growing larger, sweeter watermelons is selecting the right variety. Not all watermelon cultivars are created equal when it comes to size and sugar content. Some prioritize disease resistance or early maturation over fruit size and sweetness.

To start off on the right foot, opt for varieties specifically bred for their enormous potential and high sugar levels. Some top choices include:

• Sugar Baby: True to its name, this variety produces round, striped melons weighing up to 10 pounds each with an exceptionally sweet, crisp flesh.
• Carolina Cross: A hybrid cultivar known for its oblong shape, thick rind, and ability to produce watermelons exceeding 20 pounds.
• Crimson Sweet: A popular choice for its deep red flesh and impressive size potential, often yielding melons over 25 pounds.

Preparing the Soil for Larger Watermelons

Like any crop, watermelons require nutrient-rich soil to thrive and reach their full potential. Before planting, take the time to properly prepare your garden bed or raised beds.

Watermelons prefer well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Conduct a soil test to determine the existing nutrient levels and any amendments needed. Ideal watermelon soil should contain:

NutrientIdeal Level

Nitrogen (N)	50-100 ppm
Phosphorus (P)	50-100 ppm
Potassium (K)	100-200 ppm

Soil Testing

Testing your soil is crucial for understanding its existing composition and identifying any deficiencies or imbalances. You can purchase an inexpensive soil test kit from your local garden center or cooperative extension office, or send a sample to a professional testing lab.

Amending the Soil

Based on your soil test results, amend the soil accordingly. Incorporate generous amounts of aged compost or well-rotted manure to increase organic matter content and improve soil structure. This will help retain moisture while providing essential nutrients for your watermelon plants.

If your soil is heavy and poorly draining, consider raising the planting area or incorporating materials like perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage.

Planting and Spacing for Maximum Growth

Proper planting techniques and spacing are essential for allowing watermelon vines to spread out and develop their full potential. After all, cramped conditions will result in smaller, stunted fruits.

Start by planting watermelon seeds or transplants after the last anticipated frost date, when soil temperatures have warmed to at least 70°F. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 2-3 feet apart in rows spaced 6-8 feet apart.

Planting Depth and Spacing

• Direct seeding: Plant seeds 1 inch deep, spacing seeds 2-3 feet apart in rows 6-8 feet apart.
• Transplants: Plant seedlings 2-3 feet apart in rows 6-8 feet apart.
• Hills: For hill planting, plant 6-8 seeds per hill, thinning to 2-3 plants per hill after germination. Space hills 6-8 feet apart in rows.

Trellising or Ground Planting

Watermelons can be grown on the ground or trellised, each method offering its own advantages and disadvantages.

Ground Planting

• Pros: Easy and low-maintenance, allows vines to spread naturally.
• Cons: Requires more space, fruits can rot if in constant soil contact.

Trellising

• Pros: Saves space, prevents soil rot, improves air circulation.
• Cons: More labor-intensive, potential for stem damage.

If trellising, use a sturdy support system and gently tie vines as they grow, being careful not to damage stems. Leave enough slack for fruit development.

Watering and Fertilizing for Larger Watermelons

Consistent watering and fertilization are key to promoting larger watermelon growth and sweetness. Watermelons have high water requirements, especially during fruit development, and benefit from regular nutrient applications.

Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Apply 1-2 inches of water per week, adjusting as needed based on rainfall and temperature.

Watering Requirements

• Water deeply, providing 1-2 inches of water per week.
• Increase watering frequency as fruits develop, keeping soil consistently moist.
• Avoid overhead watering once fruits appear to prevent potential rot or disease issues.

In addition to proper watering, follow a consistent fertilization schedule to provide the nutrients watermelons need for optimal growth and fruit production.

Fertilizing Schedule

TimingFertilizer

At planting	1 lb. of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 sq. ft.
When vines begin to run	1 lb. of 33-0-0 fertilizer per 100 sq. ft.
When fruits begin to develop	1 lb. of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 sq. ft.
3 weeks after previous application	1 lb. of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 sq. ft.

Always water after applying fertilizer to prevent potential root burn.

Pest and Disease Management

Unfortunately, watermelons are susceptible to various pests and diseases that can negatively impact growth, fruit size, and overall yield. Implementing preventive measures and staying vigilant for early signs of trouble will help keep your watermelon patch healthy and productive.

Common watermelon pests include:

• Aphids
• Cucumber beetles
• Squash bugs
• Squash vine borers

Organic control methods include:

• Introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings
• Applying neem oil or insecticidal soap
• Utilizing row covers or netting

Chemical insecticides may be necessary for severe infestations but should be used judiciously and according to label instructions.

Watermelon diseases to watch out for include:

• Fusarium wilt
• Anthracnose
• Powdery mildew
• Gummy stem blight

Preventive measures:

• Rotate crops annually
• Use disease-resistant varieties
• Maintain good air circulation
• Avoid overhead watering

Treatment options may include applying approved fungicides or removing and destroying infected plants.

Harvesting and Storage Tips

After weeks of diligent care and patience, it's finally time to reap the rewards of your labor – gigantic, mouth-watering watermelons! But how do you know when they're truly ripe and ready for harvesting? And what's the best way to store them to maintain that fresh, sweet flavor?

The anticipation builds as those first watermelon babies start to swell on the vines. Here are some key indicators to look for:

1. The underside where the melon rests on the ground has turned from greenish-white to creamy yellow.
2. The thin curl where the melon attaches to the vine has withered and begun to brown.
3. The rind has developed a dull, chalky appearance rather than a glossy sheen.
4. Applying gentle pressure with your thumb produces a dull, hollow sound rather than a ringing tone.
5. Lifting the melon reveals a clear area on the ground where it was resting, indicating it's no longer continuing to size up.

Once harvested, store watermelons in a cool, shaded area with good air circulation. Ideal storage conditions are 55-60°F with 85-90% relative humidity. Under these conditions, watermelons can last 2-3 weeks.

Conclusion

Growing massive, candy-sweet watermelons requires a thoughtful approach and attention to detail throughout the entire growing process. By selecting the right variety, preparing your soil, implementing proper planting and spacing, maintaining consistent watering and fertilization, managing pests and diseases, and harvesting at peak ripeness, you'll be rewarded with watermelon perfection.

Imagine the pride and satisfaction of slicing into a watermelon so large and flavorful that it instantly becomes the envy of your entire neighborhood.