Planting watermelon seeds is relatively easy, but it requires careful attention to soil temperature, spacing, and watering.
When to Plant Watermelons?
Watermelons are warm-season crops and should be planted once the soil has warmed to about 21–24°C, Planting typically occurs in late spring after the last frost, when the soil is consistently warm.
How Long Do Watermelons Take to Germinate?
Watermelon seeds generally take 4–10 days to germinate, depending on the soil temperature and moisture levels. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not soggy during this period for the best germination rates.
Prepare Your Planting Bed
The first step in planting watermelon seeds is preparing the planting bed.
Even the Soil
Take a final pass over the surface with a rake to smooth the soil and remove any remaining debris or rocks from the bed.
Sow The Seeds
Using a pinch of watermelon seeds between your thumb and forefinger, gently roll your fingers back and forth, dropping the seeds into the soil about 1 inch apart in small hills or rows. For best results, plant 2-3 seeds per hole, as not all seeds may germinate.
Cover with Fine Compost
Lightly cover the watermelon seeds with a thin layer of fine, sifted soil or compost. This helps retain moisture, ensuring the seeds have the right environment to sprout and grow.
Watering the Watermelons
Watermelons require consistent moisture, but excessive watering or waterlogging can harm the seeds and roots. Use a gentle watering method, such as a drip irrigation system, to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overhead watering, as it can cause water to pool and wash away seeds.
Thinning
Once the watermelon seedlings have sprouted and grown a few inches tall, thin them to about 2 feet apart in rows. If you’ve planted in hills, thin the seedlings down to the strongest 2-3 plants per hill to ensure adequate space for growth.
Harvesting
Watermelons typically take 70–90 days to reach full maturity, depending on the variety. To check for ripeness, tap the melon—if it sounds hollow and the underside turns a creamy yellow color, it’s ready for harvest. The skin should also have a dull appearance and feel firm when pressed. Gently cut the melon from the vine using a sharp knife or pruners.