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When to plant watermelons You don’t want to transplant your seedlings until the threat of frost has passed. Late May is usually ideal for transplanting watermelons.
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.
Do watermelons grow well in Illinois?
Juicy, ripe melons are a staple of summer. Whether you’re craving a pretty pink watermelon or refreshing cantaloupe, Illinois produces both types. Check out fun and interesting facts on melons below: Melons grow well in the sandy soil of the Illinois River Valley.
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.
When should I start planting in Illinois?
Step 6 – Plant Your Vegetables Right Vegetable Hardiness Recommended planting period for central Illinois (b) Spinach Hardy Mar. 25-Apr. 15 Aug. 15-30 Squash, summer Very Tender May 10-June 15 Squash, winter Very Tender May 20-June 1 Sweet potato Very Tender May 10-June 1.
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 do you grow watermelon in the Midwest?
Melons like well-drained, sandy loam soils with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Soil with a pH of less than 6.0 will produce plants with yellow foliage that produce little or no fruit. Adding well-rotted manure or compost in the spring or fall can improve soil conditions. However, fresh manures can negatively impact soil.
What type of soil do watermelons grow best in?
Melons grow best on well-drained, sandy loam soils, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Soils with a pH less than 6.0 will produce plants with yellow foliage that set few or no fruit. You can improve your soil by adding well-rotted manure or compost in spring or fall.
How cold can melon plants tolerate?
Tip. Watermelons can withstand temperatures down to 33 degrees Fahrenheit, but when hit by frost, watermelon plants will be killed. Do not plant watermelons outside until the danger of frost has passed in your area.
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 watermelons 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.
How long does it take to grow watermelon?
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.
What can I plant in April in Illinois?
Plant small transplants of asparagus, early potatoes, lettuce, radish, mustard, onions, peas, rhubarb, spinach, turnips, cauliflower, carrots, and all other cool-season crops as weather permits. Plant midseason potatoes in mid-April. Plant strawberries and pinch off first-year flowers to develop strong root systems.
What can I plant in March in Illinois?
Cole crops like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage can be direct seeded into your garden around March 9, assuming the ground can be worked, but it’s better to start them indoors around February 10 and then transplant them into the garden around March 31. Do the same with lettuce and spinach.
Can you grow artichokes in Illinois?
The artichoke, Cynara scolymus, can be grown almost everywhere in the United States, except possibly Florida, where the summer is too hot. The ideal growing conditions are cool and moist summers and mild winters.
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.
How do I make my watermelon sweeter when growing?
Heat brings out melons’ sweetness, so make sure to plant them in a location that warms up early in spring and stays hot through the end of September. The south side of a fence or wall is ideal as the structure will absorb heat and light from the sun and reflect it back onto the melons.
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.
