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Typically, watermelons are not planted in Louisiana until mid-March to early April in south Louisiana or early to late April in north Louisiana. Some spring seasons remain cold for longer periods, so watch the weather and plant when all danger of frost has past.
What is the best month to plant watermelon?
Plant watermelon from late spring to early summer, once soil temperatures reach 70° F or above. Space watermelon 3 to 5 feet apart in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8.
How do watermelons grow in Louisiana?
Planting South Louisiana dates for planting are from March 1 to July 5. Watermelons prefer soil pH of 6.5. Grow the vines in raised rows known as hills and ensure good drainage. Space the plants about 2 feet apart in a 5-foot-wide hill. Watermelons like loamy, well-drained soil.
Is it too late to plant watermelon?
Planting. The best time to plant watermelon seeds is from late spring to early summer, or when the soil temperature reaches 70 degrees or above. Watermelon seeds germinate easily and quickly, and seedlings don’t usually transplant well, so there’s no need to start them in a pot or seed tray.
How long does it take to grow a watermelon from a plant?
How long does it take for a watermelon to grow to full size? Watermelons require 80-90 days from seed sowing to grow a full-size watermelon. Some smaller-sized watermelons (like Sugar Baby) can reach maturity in closer to 70 days.
Can I plant watermelon in April?
Planting Times In warmer climates, like Texas and the hotter areas of California, planting time for watermelons is December through early July, although April through July is more common.
How much space do you need to grow watermelon?
Watermelons need A LOT of space—up to 20 square feet per plant. Their vines need room to sprawl, so plant them in a place where they won’t crowd out other crops. Growing the vines in raised rows, known as hills, ensures good drainage and will hold the sun’s heat longer.
How late can you plant watermelon in Louisiana?
Typically, watermelons are not planted in Louisiana until mid-March to early April in south Louisiana or early to late April in north Louisiana. Some spring seasons remain cold for longer periods, so watch the weather and plant when all danger of frost has past.
What kind of fertilizer is best for watermelon?
When fertilizing watermelon plants, use nitrogen based fertilizer at the onset. Once the plant begins flowering, however, switch to feeding the watermelon a phosphorus and potassium based fertilizer. Watermelons require ample potassium and phosphorus for optimal melon production.
How do I make my watermelon sweeter when growing?
Sweetness Starts in the Soil To encourage strong growth, blend 4 to 6 inches of composted manure into your melon beds prior to planting. Then add a balanced organic fertilizer (such as a mixed blood meal/bone meal product) every 3 to 4 weeks.
Can I plant watermelon in March?
Plant seedlings or direct-sow your watermelon seeds in the southern zones 7 through 11. In zones 7 and 8, sow watermelon seeds and plant seedlings in mid-April. In the subtropical zones 9 through 11, plant watermelon as early as mid-March.
Do watermelon plants come back every year?
Watermelon plants do not come back every year as they are tender annuals. Though this does mean you need to sow watermelon seeds every year, thankfully they are quick growing plus planting new plants each year also reduces the likelihood of disease.
Can you plant watermelon in a container?
Yes, you can grow watermelon in pots. But there are some important guidelines you’ll want to follow to set yourself up for success. Watermelons are fun to grow in pots, but they must be cared for properly.
Are watermelons easy growing?
Growing watermelons requires lots of space, lots of sun, lots of water and lots of nutrients. Watermelons are not particularly difficult to grow but because they are so demanding I don’t consider watermelons a good plant for beginner gardeners. (You can get lucky if you live in the perfect climate with perfect soil.).
Is Epsom salt good for watermelon plants?
For sweeter watermelons and cantaloupes when the plant starts vining and again when small 1-inch melons appear, spray with 6 1/2 tablespoons Epsom salts and 3 1/2 tablespoons borax in 5 gallons of water. For more fruit on your pepper plants, fertilize the plant by burying an open one-half pack of book matches near it.
How many watermelon seeds are in a hole?
Place a seed in each hole and cover with loose soil. You will be able to fit 7-8 seeds in each mound. After planting, water the seeds in thoroughly. After the seedlings emerge and are a couple of inches long, you should keep the 3 most promising plants and pull the rest out of the ground.
Do watermelons need full sun?
Light. Watermelons require full sunlight in order to thrive. The plants can tolerate some partial shade, particularly in hotter climates, but plenty of sun is necessary to develop the sugars in the melons.
When should I start watermelon?
Sow watermelon seed or set plants directly in the garden in spring 2 weeks after all danger of frost has passed after the soil has warmed to 70°F (21°C). Watermelon seed can be started indoors 8 to 6 weeks before plants are set out.
Why are my baby watermelons rotting?
More often than not, watermelon blossom end rot occurs when water levels are fluctuating during fruit initiation. A steady supply of water is required to move calcium to these young fruits, but too much isn’t good, either – good drainage is necessary for healthy roots.
