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Gardening Tips for Watermelon? Having fresh garden-grown melons in the Summer is a sure way to splash a cool wave on hot days. I can remember being in a group of kids in the old neighborhood, lined up, and having a seed-spitting contest. There were no prized involved, but it was to see who was the reigning champion of the block!
Every kid should have such memories! When it comes to home gardening, the prospect of growing fruits and vegetables can be intimidating. For this reason, a great way to start growing is with watermelons.
Gardening Tips for Watermelon that Actually Work!
This might seem strange but the truth is that watermelons are a very agreeable crop. They can be
subject to heavy watering or be in climates that do not get a lot of it, such as Falluja, Iraq.
Watermelon Basic Facts
Seed germinates in 8 to 10 days. The best temperature for germination is from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but black-eyed peas will germinate from 40 to 80 F. As with bush beans, germination in ideal temperatures will take eight to 10 days, but it can take two weeks or more if soil temperatures are below 60 F.
Plant Black Eyes Peas in the spring, as they can only be grown in warm soil, with no risk of frost or cold, generally in the late spring and throughout the summer.
86 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a heat-loving vegetable that won't really take off until the air temperatures remain reliably warm.
You will want to grow 20-30 plants per person planning on eating them. You have to shell these buggers, like peas and it takes more plants than you would think.
First of all, it is traditional to kick off the new year with them - tons of recipes suggest it as a way to bring not only good luck, but prosperity.
These are best cooked, and are often served with greens, rice, and / or pork.
Growing watermelons requires three simple steps along with good water and sunlight:
- Till the soil
- Plant the seeds
- Use the right fertilizer
Tips for Watermelon: Tilling the Soil
A watermelon patch does not have to be very large, but it does need a substantial amount of
sunlight. When tilling the soil, be sure that the patch will receive at least eight hours of sun
exposure. This will allow for a proper amount of photosynthesis to take place, leading to a more
abundant harvest.
When tilling up grass, it is likely that the grass will grow back. This can be prevented by either
actively hoeing or weeding the area. And be careful not to till the soil over any pipes.
Planting the Seeds
After the soil is properly tilled, it is time to plant the watermelon seeds. This can be done by
putting them right into the ground or using a paper planting pot until they sprout.
After the seeds sprout out of the planting pots they should be put into the ground, but be sure not
to plant them higher than the dirt line in the pot. This will ensure better growth as the sprouts
begin to flower.
Along with substantial sunlight, watermelons grow best with a lot of water. For those living in
dryer climates, applying a sprinkler for two hours in the evening should be enough. If the
sprinkler is left on overnight, the watermelons will be alright as can be spoken of from
experience.
As the vines extend, it will then be time to apply fertilizer.
The Best Fertilizer for Watermelons
When the vines extend, it is then time to apply fertilizer. The ideal fertilizer for watermelons is 8-
24-24
When applying it, do so liberally. The fruit will thrive as it swells up nicely and receives regular
watering in the evenings and from natural precipitation.
Whether one is looking to grow watermelons for their own enjoyment or to sell at a farmer's
market, properly tilled soil, regular care, and the right fertilizer will make a big difference in the
outcome of the crop.
Benefits
More than just a summer sugary treat, Watermelon is rich in an amino acid called citrulline that may help move blood through your body and can lower your blood pressure. Your heart also enjoys the perks of all the lycopene watermelon contains. Studies show that it may lower your risk of heart attacks.
Add in the bonus of being about 90% water? It is a better way to hydrate than grabbing a bottle of Gatorade.
Easy Recipe
One of my favorite recipes is a simple salad with cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, and finely minced sprigs of mint. There is no need to add any marinade as the watermelon weeps a bit and when blended with the feta? it is beyond delicious!
Besides that, I have a bunch of other fun recipes on my foodie site: Hot Watermelon Salad Recipe and More! They are all worth checking out!