At a Glance
Watermelons are asummer staple , and there ’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of turn your own . If you ’re looking to civilize this sweet andrefreshing fruitin Virginia , this comprehensive guide will provide you with all theessential informationyou need .
Climate and Soil Conditions
Virginia’shumid subtropical climate offer up golden conditionsfor watermelon polish . Watermelons boom in well - enfeeble , arenaceous loam soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 6.5 . Theoptimal soil temperaturefor Citrullus vulgaris increase ranges from 70 ° F to 85 ° F .
Site Selection and Preparation
select asunny locationwith at least six hours of direct sun per day . reset the arena of any pot or dust , and till the dirt to a astuteness of 12 inches . Amend the soil with compost or well - rotted manuretoimprove fertilityand drain .
Planting Time and Seeds
Watermelon seminal fluid should be planted alfresco after the lastspring frost , when thesoil temperaturehas reached 70 ° F . Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 feet apart in row spaced 6 to 8 feet apart .
Watering and Fertilizing
watermelon require regular lachrymation , especially during red-hot , dry weather . Water deeply and infrequently , allowing the soil to dry out slightly between lachrymation . Fertilize plant every four to six weeks with a balanced fertilizer .
Pollination and Fruit Set
watermelon are monecious , think they produce both male and distaff flowerson the same works . Pollination happens when bees and other insects transfer pollen from the manlike flowers to the distaff flowers . Toensure honorable yield exercise set , provide plenty of efflorescence by planting multiple Citrullus vulgaris plants .
Trellising and Support
trellis watermelon vine helps improve air circulation , reduces disease , and make harvest easier . musical accompaniment vines with a trellis or wager to prevent them from sprawl on the solid ground .
Pest and Disease Control
Common pests thataffect watermelons let in aphids , cucumber beetles , and squash bug . restraint pests by using constitutional orchemical methods . Diseases such as anthracnose , powdery mildew , andFusarium wiltcan also impact watermelon . drill craw rotation and follow proper cultural practice to reduce disease risk .
Harvesting and Storage
Citrullus vulgaris are mature when therind turnsa dull Green River and the undersurface of thefruit turns yellow . tapdance the watermelon to train for a vacuous phone , indicating ripeness . Harvest fruits by make out them from the vine with a penetrative knife . memory board watermelon in a cool , dry place for up to two week .
Troubleshooting
job : Poor yield setSolution : Ensure adequate pollinationbyproviding plentyof flowers and pull bees . Problem : Yellowing leavesSolution : Check fornutrient deficienciesor disease . Fertilize works regularly andtreat diseasesaccordingly . Problem : Fruit rotSolution : Avoid overwatering andprovide good drain . Rotate crop and use disease - resistant variety .
FAQ
Q : Can Igrow watermelonsin containers?A : Yes , butchoose gravid containers(at least 24 inches in diameter ) andprovide plentyof support for the vines . Q : How long does it take for watermelon to grow?A : From planting to harvest , watermelons typicallytake 80 to 100 days . Q : What are the bestwatermelon varietiesfor Virginia?A : pop salmagundi include Sugar Baby , Crimson Sweet , and Jubilee .
