Watermelon Seeds

• Standard watermelon varieties usually hold up to 1,000 seeds per fruit. The seeds require a soil temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit or above to germinate. The plant grows best in organic soil with a high-compost level. It requires well-draining soil. The seeds should have 1 to 2 inches of soil spread on top of them. Plant the watermelon seeds after all danger of frost has passed. Consider laying black plastic mulch across the soil's surface after planting watermelon seeds. The plastic will help increase the soil's temperature and increase the plant's growth rate. Plastic mulches also allow you to plant the seeds earlier, even with frost conditions.
  
  

Temperature

• The watermelon grows best when the daytime temperature hovers between 70 and 80 degrees. The nighttime temperature can drop to 65 to 70 degrees. The plant requires approximately 1 to 2 inches of rain or irrigation per week to grow well. Slowly irrigate the plant, so the water sinks deeply into the soil. Consider applying a layer of mulch, such as bark chips, across the soil to help keep it moist during the heat of summer. Apply the mulch when the outside temperature reaches 75 degrees.
  
  

Considerations

• Watermelons benefit from an application of nitrogen fertilizer (21-0-0) to help support development. Consider sprinkling 1 to 2 tbsp. per plant once runners have formed. Once the plant begins to flower, it will bear fruit in about 35 to 45 days. The plants require plenty of room to grow. Space each plant 2 feet apart in rows located 4 feet apart. Watermelon plants grow shallow root systems, so take care when cultivating not to damage the roots. Remove weed growth to help eliminate competition for water and nutrients.
  
  

Harvest

• The watermelon takes on a dull appearance when ready for harvest. The side of the melon that lies on the ground usually exhibits a yellowish coloration. The tendrils that attach the melon to the vine begin to dry and curl. Watermelons store well if kept cool. Consider keeping the fruit at a temperature of 45 to 50 degrees and the fruit will last one to two weeks. Harvest each melon as it ripens on the vine. High temperatures during the growing period of the watermelon can often cause the fruit to not taste as sweet as melons grown at moderate temperatures.